Stigma in visible skin diseases – a literature review and development of a conceptual model

The burden of visible skin diseases (VSDs) includes not only physical symptoms but also psychosocial consequences such as depression, anxiety, impaired quality life and low self-esteem. Stigmatization was shown to play a major role in people with diseases. aim the study review evidence for components, drivers impacts (self-)stigma, organize data into series conceptual models. A targeted literature search conducted identify studies on (self-)stigma relation VSD. Conceptual models stigma VSDs were developed from existing generic VSD refined after discussion board experts, patient advocacy groups, clinicians researchers. total 580 references identified, which 56 analysed summarized. Two identified: one external self-stigma dimensions, other mental health. These adapted allow complete description VSDs. For this, distinction made between 'discrimination' 'impact'. Finally, five developed: macro-overview; stigma, impact socio-demographics; disease characteristics; life; coping. Gaps identified available quantitative evidence. To our knowledge, this is first model will help standardize evaluation enhance empirical anti-stigma interventions Further research should be develop more due significant gaps evidence, particularly including others (external stigma) cover broader range their particular dimensions differs.