Somatoform Disorder
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Somatoform disorders are characterised by the primary problem being a physical presentation or concern secondary to a psychological problem. They are an important group of disorders to be aware of since patients with them often present to GP’s and physicians rather than psychiatrists.
Somatisation disorder.
- Dramatic presentation of multiple, recurrent and frequently changing physical symptoms. Many negative investigations have usually been carried out in the years prior to referral to a psychiatrist.
- The disorder is more common in women than men and usually starts in early adult life.
Hypochondriasis.
- A persistent belief in the presence of at least one serious physical illness despite negative physical findings and reassurance. Alternatively the patient may have a persistent preoccupation with a presumed deformity or disfigurement.
Dissociative (conversion) disorders.
- Occurs secondary to internal conflict.
- Includes conversion symptoms (the conversion of underlying conflict into, often representative, physical symptoms, amnesia, fugues (amnesia plus an apparently purposeful journey away from home or workplace with maintenance of self-care), stupor.
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