Somatoform and Factitious Disorders

Beset by contradictions, somatoform and factitious disorders have an unusually
long, rich, and colorful historical and clinical tradition. Yet, some of them
have received only limited empirical investigation.

This book continues
that rich tradition by offering a broad and scholarly synthesis of the current
knowledge-and controversies-about somatoform and factitious disorders. Here
you'll find up-to-date, clinically focused overviews of these intriguing and
often difficult-to-treat disorders.

Recognized experts present the latest
findings along with insightful recommendations and illustrative case studies on
Somatization disorder-The evolution and problems of diagnostic criteria (e.g.,
its focus on symptom counting), epidemiology, clinical features, etiologic
considerations, differential diagnosis (e.g., contrasted with depressive and
anxiety disorders), evaluation (use of questionnaires), and treatment
considerations (psychotherapy, psychotropic medications).
Hypochondriasis-History, clinical features, theoretical models (psychodynamic,
cognitive-behavioral, and physiologic), research studies, and practical
techniques for treatment (from pharmacotherapy to cognitive behavioral therapy
to alternative treatments such as relaxation therapy). Body dysmorphic
disorder-History and prevalence, clinical features, treatment (including surgery
and nonpsychiatric medical treatment), etiology and pathophysiology (its
relationship to obsessive-compulsive, depressive, and eating disorders), and
diagnosis and misdiagnosis. Conversion disorder-Diagnostic criteria and
clinical subtypes, history and definitions, models of symptom generation,
functions served by conversion symptoms, associated features, epidemiology,
demographic and disease course, comorbidity, differential diagnosis, and
treatment (best done in collaboration with an internist, primary care physician,
or neurologist). Factitious disorders (widely known as Munchausen syndrome, its
most extreme subtype)-Empirical evidence related to epidemiology and etiology;
diagnosis, clinical description, prevalence, and associated costs; limitations
of current approaches; the reliability and usefulness of differential diagnoses;
comorbidity, etiology, and management.

Both concise and thorough, this
extensively annotated volume clarifies the issues surrounding these fascinating
disorders and offers practical guidance and recommendations, highlighting the
pressing need for further research to improve patient care. As such, it will
prove compelling reading for practicing psychiatrists and other physicians in
any clinical setting who want to better understand the baffling complexities of
these distressing disorders.