The symptomatology of abnormal appearance: an anecdotal survey.

From a systematic analysis of 54 anecdotal accounts written by patients with various abnormalities of appearance, a common pattern of experience has been discovered which is divisible into six parts: induction and development of self-consciousness, defence mechanisms, unavoidable distressing activities, downgrading of self-concept, difficulties with interpersonal relationships, and rationalisation. This scheme of symptomatology is presented as a basis for history-taking and as a base-line for future comparative studies of different types of abnormal appearance.