Body Dysmorphic Disorder Differential Diagnoses

Updated: Oct 03, 2019
  • Author: Iqbal Ahmed, MBBS, FRCPsych(UK); Chief Editor: David Bienenfeld, MD  more...
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DDx

Diagnostic Considerations

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is sometimes overlooked as a diagnosis because many patients are reluctant to discuss their symptoms or actively try to conceal them. Failure to make this diagnosis can be dangerous because these patients are at increased risk for suicide. Patients with BDD are also at risk for repeated cosmetic surgery to correct their imagined defects.

In addition to the conditions listed in the differential diagnosis, other issues to be considered in the setting of suspected BDD include the following:

  • Normal concerns about appearance

  • Occult medical condition (eg, brain tumor or endocrine disturbances)

  • Avoidant personality disorder

  • Narcissistic personality disorder

  • Sexual identity disorder

Differentials