[Dermatitis artefacta. Report of seven cases].

Background: Dermatitis artefacta is a self-induced chronic disease in which the responsibility for the lesions is uniformly denied by the patient. The latter is not aware of the reason for self-destruction. The diagnosis of such a condition is difficult because of multiple clinical aspects and the fear of missing an organic disease.

Case Reports: We report on seven cases of dermatitis artefacta with a chronic recurrent course. The cutaneous findings, the means involved in provoking lesions, the treatment modalities as well as the patients' psychological profile may vary from one case to another.

Discussion: Criteria for diagnosis and management are discussed and compared with literature data. An inappropriate approach may cause the loss of the patient and the recurrence of the lesions. Psychotherapy is indicated even though prognosis is poor.