A 15 year old male presents to the physician with severe acne that has not responded to over-the-counter treatments. The patient tearfully tells that doctor that he feels so embarrassed by his skin condition that he has been avoiding leaving the house and skipping school. A former top student, he has begun to fail classes, withdraw from his family and friends, and has been losing weight. Which is the most appropriate response for the physician to give?
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- “It sounds like you are depressed; would you consider seeing a psychiatrist and/or counselor?”
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- “Many people suffer from acne; it’s nothing to be embarrassed about.”
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- “We will treat your acne aggressively and that should help your other problems as well.”
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- “While we will treat your skin condition, why don’t we talk a little bit more about the problems you’re having at school and in your social life”
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- “Your acne really doesn’t look that bad; it probably seems worse to you than it really is.”
0 voters
EXP:
This patient is exhibiting signs of depression, including social withdrawal, academic failure, weight loss and sad affect (tearfulness). The physician should certainly treat his acne, but should also address this important psychiatric issue.