A study of personality And psychological distress among delusional halitosis patients.

Abstract

An assessment of personality and psychological distress of people living with delusional halitosis attending Oral Wellness Centre (OWC) at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin City over a six-month period was undertaken. Five (5) patients with age range of 18-30 years and a mean age of 24 years (SD = 4.47) were included in the study. These individuals manifested multiple symptoms associated with distress and they experienced personal discomfort and social embarrassment leading to emotional distress. The study highlights the importance of assessing personality characteristics and psychological dysfunction of patients presenting with delusional halitosis. A multidisciplinary approach in the treatment of delusional halitosis cannot, therefore be overemphasized.