Comparing Patient Outcomes using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy vs. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors in the Treatment of Body Dysmorphic Disorder: An Evidence-Based Literature Review

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a chronic and disabling condition, characterized by a preoccupation with an imagined or slight defect in appearance [1]. This disorder is extremely distressing and causes poor functioning as well as decreased quality of life. Methodology: A systematic review of the literature was conducted to determine whether differences in patient outcomes existed when using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) versus selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in the treatment of BDD. Results: After a review of the literature, it was found that aggressive treatment using both CBT and SSRIs together proved to be more successful in preventing reoccurrence of BDD symptoms than using either treatment alone. Conclusion: Sufficient evidence stands that using CBT and SSRI treatments separately are effective in the treatment of BDD, but using both treatments together proves to be more efficacious and produce better patient outcomes