The conversion of emotional distress or unconscious conflict into a physical symptom. It is one of the general class of Somatoform disorders.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
The symptom onset of this disorder is usually very sudden and follows a stressful experience. The loss of function may symbolize the underlying conflict associated with it. Psychodynamic theory interprets the cause of the symptoms as a defense mechanism that absorbs and neutralizes the anxiety generated by an unacceptable impulse or wish. Risk factors include a history of histrionic personality disorder or dependent personality disorder .
Signs and tests
A physical examination is performed to rule out physical cause for loss of function. Specific diagnostic testing related to the exhibited symptom may be warranted to rule out a physical cause.
Treatment
Psychiatric treatment is recommended to help the person understand the underlying psychological conflict. The person needs to know there is no organic cause for the symptom. The integrity of the affected body part or function must be maintained until the conflict is resolved and the symptoms usually disappear. For example, paralyzed limbs must be exercised to avoid muscle wasting .
Expectations (prognosis)
Relief of the symptom occurs with effective treatment. Usually the symptom is not life-threatening, but complications as a result of the symptom can develop and be debilitating, (for example, muscle wasting through disuse of a body part, or wasting and weight loss due to gastrointestinal symptoms).
Complications
Complications can result from disuse of a body part or system. Seizure-like disorders referred to as pseudoseizures develop in some individuals.
Calling your health care provider
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if multiple diagnostic work-ups have found no cause for the symptoms.