Ganser syndrome

Ganser syndrome
Synonyms	Nonsense syndrome, prison psychosis
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Approximate answers, clouding of consciousness, hallucinations, conversion disorder symptoms
Complications	N/A
Onset	Sudden
Duration	Variable
Types	N/A
Causes	Psychological stress, trauma
Risks	Incarceration, mental health disorders
Diagnosis	Clinical assessment, exclusion of other conditions
Differential diagnosis	Malingering, factitious disorder, dissociative disorder
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Psychotherapy, supportive care
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Generally good with treatment
Frequency	Rare
Deaths	N/A

Ganser syndrome is a rare type of mental disorder characterized by nonsensical or wrong answers to questions and other dissociative symptoms such as fugue, amnesia or conversion disorder, often with visual pseudohallucinations and a decreased state of consciousness.

Symptoms

The most notable symptom is the patient's giving approximate answers to questions (e.g., "2 plus 2 equals 5"). Other symptoms include hallucinations, clouding of consciousness, speaking in a nonsensical manner, and symptoms similar to those of hysteria (both conversion disorder and dissociative disorders).

Causes

The exact cause of Ganser syndrome is unknown. It is often associated with severe stress and often follows a traumatic event. It has also been associated with depression, anxiety, and personality disorders.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is based on the patient's clinical history and symptoms. There are no specific tests to diagnose Ganser syndrome. It is often misdiagnosed as malingering, schizophrenia, or a mood disorder.

Treatment

Treatment is focused on reducing symptoms and improving functioning. This may include psychotherapy, medication, and other supportive measures.

Prognosis

The prognosis for Ganser syndrome is generally good with appropriate treatment. Most patients recover fully with time.

See also

• Dissociative disorder
• Conversion disorder
• Malingering
• Schizophrenia
• Mood disorder

External links

• WikiMD article on Ganser syndrome