Somatization disorder

Somatization disorder, now recognized in the DSM-5 as somatic symptom disorder, is a mental disorder characterized by recurrent, multiple, and current, clinically significant complaints about somatic symptoms. Patients often experience significant dysfunction and distress in their lives due to their preoccupation and concern about these physical symptoms.

Clinical Presentation

Patients with somatic symptom disorder have one or more somatic symptoms that are distressing or disrupt their daily life. The symptoms can involve any part of the body and can vary in severity. The key feature of this disorder is not the presence of the physical symptoms themselves, but rather the patients' response to these symptoms, which includes excessive thoughts, feelings, or behaviors related to the symptoms.

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Etiology

The exact cause of somatic symptom disorder is unknown, but it is likely to be a complex interplay of genetic, neurobiological, and psychosocial factors. Studies suggest a higher prevalence in women and in those with a lower socioeconomic status.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis involves identifying the excessive or maladaptive response to somatic symptoms rather than focusing on the legitimacy of the symptoms themselves. This requires thorough medical evaluation to rule out physical causes of the symptoms and a psychiatric evaluation to assess the patient's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in relation to the symptoms.

Treatment

Treatment of somatic symptom disorder primarily involves cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to help patients identify and change maladaptive thought and behavior patterns. Medication, such as antidepressants, may also be useful in some cases. The goal of treatment is to improve daily functioning and reduce distress, rather than to eliminate the somatic symptoms themselves.

Prognosis

The prognosis varies widely and depends on the severity of the disorder, the individual's insight into the disorder, and their willingness to participate in treatment. Some patients may experience chronic symptoms but still have a good quality of life with appropriate management.

See Also

• Conversion Disorder
• Illness Anxiety Disorder
• Factitious Disorder
• Malingering
• Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder

References

Somatization disorder Resources
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