Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is classified as an obsessive-compulsive disorder characterized by an intense preoccupation with perceived physical defects and often leads to distress and negative effects on various aspects of life. People with BDD may engage in repetitive behaviors and comparisons regarding their appearance, and common concerns focus on areas like the skin, hair, and nose; a subtype known as muscle dysmorphia specifically involves preoccupation with body size and muscle composition.

Main signs and symptoms of body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) include a constant preoccupation with physical characteristics, repetitive behaviors like mirror checking and excessive grooming, difficulties in social relationships, and poor concentration. Depression is also commonly observed in people with BDD, which necessitates screening for other conditions that may share similar symptoms.

Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is often overlooked and misdiagnosed due to feelings of shame in individuals, which makes it crucial for clinicians to use specific screening tools like the BDDQ and BIDQ to accurately identify the disorder. The DSM also provides criteria to differentiate BDD from other conditions, such as eating disorders, and additional tools can help identify subgroups of BDD and assess insight into perceived defects.

The main medical treatments for body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) include cognitive behavioral therapy and serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SRIs), such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and clomipramine. Treatment may need to be adjusted for comorbid conditions, and further research is required to determine the efficacy of off-label medications for BDD.

N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) has shown positive outcomes in treating certain obsessive-compulsive and related disorders, and although there are no specific studies on its effectiveness for body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), it is prescribed as an adjunct therapy with promising results. Further research is needed to confirm its safety, effectiveness, and the appropriate dosage for BDD.

Diet and nutrition can influence brain health, but there is limited research specifically on their effects on body dysmorphic disorder (BDD). People with BDD often have unhealthy relationships with food, which may lead to eating disorders and nutritional deficiencies that should be considered in their treatment.

Online and smartphone-based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is under investigation as a treatment for body dysmorphic disorder and has shown some promise in symptom improvement, especially for people in rural areas or who are reluctant to meet in person. More research is needed to evaluate how effective app-based CBT is compared to traditional in-person therapy.

Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) likely arises from a combination of genetic, developmental, and social factors, and evidence suggests a hereditary component and the involvement of potential gene mutations. Additionally, brain imaging studies indicate altered brain activity and dysfunction in areas related to visual perception and information processing in people with BDD.