Excoriation Disorder and Autism Spectrum Disorder: Clinical Challenges at the Intersection of Sensory Dysregulation and Repetitive Behaviors

Excoriation disorder, also known as dermatillomania or skin-picking disorder, is characterized by recurrent, compulsive skin picking that leads to tissue damage, infection risk, pigmentary changes, and psychosocial impairment.While it is classified under the obsessive-compulsive and related disorders in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), research suggests a potential overlap with neurodevelopmental conditions, particularly autism spectrum disorder (ASD).In individuals with autism, skin-picking behaviors may be underrecognized or misattributed to atypical sensory processing or repetitive behaviors, creating significant diagnostic challenges.Because dermatologists are often the first to observe chronic excoriations, scarring, and infections, recognition of possible comorbidity with ASD is critical for timely referral and intervention.This literature review synthesizes current evidence on the overlap between excoriation disorder and ASD, including behavioral, sensory, and cutaneous contributors.It also highlights challenges in recognition and diagnosis, as skin-picking may be misattributed to autism itself and recognition is further complicated by communication barriers.Standard treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy and pharmacologic agents often require autism-informed adaptation to account for sensory sensitivities, communication styles, and repetitive behavior profiles.Greater recognition of excoriation disorder within the context of ASD may help guide more effective, multidisciplinary care while ultimately improving patient outcomes.