ABSTRACT

The experience of dermatologists in clinical practice is that the majority of their patients deal with their skin disorder in an appropriate manner and do not display any undue concern or distress. However, some patients, especially those with chronic skin disease or with visible lesions, may sustain a devastating impact on their self-image, self-esteem, and selfconfidence as well as on their interactions with other people. Relationships within the family, with friends, coworkers or fellow students, and with people met with in a casual context may be affected.