What is dermatitis artefacta?

Dermatitis artefacta is a condition in which skin lesions are solely produced or inflicted by the patient's own actions. This usually occurs as a result or manifestation of a psychological problem. It could be a form of emotional release in situations of distress or part of an attention seeking behaviour. In very rare cases there may be an underlying attempt to secure an insurance claim.

You can use or share this image if you comply with our image licence. Please provide a link back to this page.
For a high resolution, unwatermarked copy contact us here. Fees apply.

Source: dermnetnz.org