Abrasion disorder: what is, symptoms, causes and treatment

Scurry disorder is a psychological disorder characterized by the habit of poking or manipulating the skin itself, which can cause wounds, injuries and scars, as well as the feeling of shame or guilt for behavior.

Also known as dermatotlexomania, disorder can be caused by psychological factors such as depression and anxiety, family history of obsessive-compulsive disorder and imbalances in serotonin levels, for example.

Treatment for abrasion disorder should be guided by the psychiatrist and psychologist and may include cognitive behavioral therapy and habits reversal training. In some cases the use of medication may be indicated, such as fluoxetine and sertraline.

Main symptoms

The main symptoms of abrasion disorder are:

• Compulsion to poke the skin;
• Skin lesions such as wounds, injuries and scars;
• Lesions concentrated in a single region of the skin or in various areas;
• Feeling of shame or guilt for the act of poking;
• Failed attempts to control behavior.

In addition, it is possible that the person feels embarrassed with his skin and can affect his social, professional and emotional life.

How the diagnosis is made

The diagnosis of abrasion disorder is made by the psychiatrist or psychologist through an assessment of the frequency and the intensity of behavior, which may take into account visible injuries and attempts to control the act of poking the skin.

Moreover, it is considered the impact that abrasion disorder has on one’s social life and whether there is another associated factor, such as depression or OCD, for example.

Possible causes

The causes of abrasion disorder may involve a combination of factors, such as:

1. Chemical imbalances in the brain

Imbalance in neurotransmitter levels such as serotonin and dopamine can lead to the thrust of poking the skin in search of pleasure, as these substances help the brain regulate mood and promote the feeling of well-being.

Also read: Neurotransmitters: what they are, main types and functions

tuasaude.com/neurotransmissores

2. Genetic factors

Escaria disorder may be related to the family history of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or other compulsive behaviors such as trichotilomania, which is the habit of repetitively pulling one’s hair. Understand what toc is and how to treat.

3. Behavioral factors

The habit of poking the skin can start simply, such as stirring pimples or imperfections, however, it can become a repetitive and compulsive act in times of tiredness or boredom.

4. Psychological factors

Escaria disorder may be linked to anxiety and depression, so that poking the skin can cause momentary relief in emotional stress.

Also read: Depression and anxiety: what they are, symptoms, such as differentiating and treatment

tuasaude.com/depressao-e-ansiedade

How treatment is done

Treatment for abrasion disorder may include:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (TCC)where the psychologist helps to identify and modify the behaviors that lead to abrasion;
• Habit Reversal Training (HRT)a technique in which the psychologist teaches how to replace abrasion behavior with another alternative answers, such as squeezing a stress ball;
• Social supportSupport and/or family groups can help in self -acceptance and strategies for the disorder.

In some cases, the psychiatrist may indicate the use of medications, such as fluoxetine and sertraline, to treat anxiety and depression disorders, conditions that can lead to abrasion disorder.

Created by:
EDITORIAL TEAM TEAR TEAM

Editorial team consisting of doctors and health professionals from various areas such as nursing, nutrition, physiotherapy, clinical analysis and pharmacy.