ABSTRACT
Objective: Culture-bound syndrome is a term used to describe syndromes unique to certain cultures. We need to understand the origins of cognitions related to these syndromes. Methods: We present the case report of a patient with dhat syndrome and koro with no other psychiatric disorder. Results: The cognitions related to these two distinct culture-bound syndromes in our patient seem to have their origins from different sources. While those related to dhat anxiety are peer-group induced, the one related to koro-like symptoms seem to have been affirmed by an alternative medical practitioner. Conclusion: Mental health professionals dealing with patients having culture-bound syndromes need to get to the core of origin of various cognitions and beliefs that such patients bring into the consultation rooms.
ABSTRACT
Psychogenic purpura or Diamond-Gardner Syndrome Is associated with painful bruising and purpura following an auto-sensitization to red blood cells along with imminent psychological and psychosocial factors. Patients with this disorder may present to the dermatologist from where they may be referred to the psychiatrist. A history of psychological stress may be elicited in some cases and psychiatric comorbidity may be seen in others. The psychiatrist, dermatologist and haematologist may have to assess the patient together to reach a diagnosis after a thorough evaluation. The treatment of this condition often involves a team approach involving various medical specialties. We present a series of three cases of psy-chogenic purpura and review the relevant literature