Ester used to pick at mosquito bites when she was younger and found that it made her feel better. When her parents divorced, she began picking at her arm, causing it to break open and bleed. She would then pick at the scabs, preventing them from healing properly. Now she finds that she engages in this behaviour automatically when she is nervous about something. What would be her likely diagnosis?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Ester's symptoms suggest excoriation, also known as skin picking disorder. This is characterized by the recurrent urge to pick at one's own skin, leading to skin damage and interferes with daily activities, such as work or school, and causes significant distress.

Ester Used to Pick at Mosquito Bites When She Was