Overview of Somatization-Diagnosis and Management

ABSTRACT

Background: Neurologists and general practitioners frequently encounter patients with inexplicable; unintentionally produced somatic complaints otherwise known as somatoform disorders. Methods: A literature search was performed including MEDLINE; as well as local and international journals using the following keywords/ phrases and cross referencing somatoform disorder; somatization; medically unexplained physical symptoms. Results: Illness with excessive somatic preoccupation is difficult to diagnose or categorize reliably due to rigid diagnostic criteria that often overlap with several psychiatric disorders. Conclusion: Management of patients with dysfunctional somatoform disorders is complex and challenging; particularly when initiated in a neurology outpatient or inpatient setting. The acronym CARE-MD represents a comprehensive treatment regimen that can be used to decrease physician and patient frustration; dramatically minimise health care over utilization; and improve overall well-being for patients with somatoform disorders