Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) in DSM-5 differs from Illness Anxiety Disorder in which key way?
- A BDD is classified under somatic symptom disorders; IAD is under OCD spectrum
- B BDD requires medically unexplained physical symptoms; IAD does not
- C BDD concerns imagined or slight defects in physical appearance, while IAD concerns fear of having a serious disease ✓
- D Both are identical except BDD occurs only in women
Correct answer: C. BDD concerns imagined or slight defects in physical appearance, while IAD concerns fear of having a serious disease
Explanation
BDD involves preoccupation with perceived defects or flaws in physical appearance (not noticeable to others or appearing slight to others), leading to repetitive behaviors (mirror checking, reassurance-seeking, skin picking). It falls under the OCD and Related Disorders chapter. Illness Anxiety Disorder (somatic symptom chapter) involves excessive worry about having or acquiring a serious illness despite minimal/no somatic symptoms. The distinction is: BDD = appearance; IAD = disease worry. BDD affects both sexes and has a muscle dysmorphia variant more common in men.
Reference: Kaplan & Sadock's Synopsis of Psychiatry, 11th ed.
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