6533b827fe1ef96bd1285aed

RESEARCH PRODUCT

Course and prediction of somatoform disorder and medically unexplained symptoms in primary care

Wolfgang HillerNatalie Steinbrecher

subject

AdultMalemedicine.medical_specialtyCoping (psychology)AdolescentPrimary careAbstract theoryYoung AdultGermanySurveys and QuestionnairesmedicineHumansSomatoform DisordersPsychiatryAgedAged 80 and overPrimary Health CareMedically unexplainedCognitionMiddle Agedmedicine.diseasePatient Health QuestionnairePsychiatry and Mental healthFemalePsychologyPsychosocialAnxiety disorderClinical psychology

description

Abstract Theory/objective Somatoform disorder (SFD) is associated with considerable psychosocial impairment. However, only a few studies have dealt with the course of this clinical subgroup. Therefore, the objective was to identify predictors for the various courses of SFD and medically unexplained symptoms (MUS). Method We screened 620 consecutive patients in primary care using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-15). Afterwards, 308 patients were studied in more detail using a diagnostic interview and a set of questionnaires. One year later, we were able to interview 277 participants a second time. Result After 1 year, 48.8% of the respondents had a remitted SFD. The following variables proved to be significant predictors of MUS: current depressive episode, negative life events, number of MUS at baseline, attributional style, autonomic sensations and catastrophizing cognitions. The course of SFD could be predicted through current depressive or anxiety disorder, negative life events, functional disability and attributional style. Conclusion Somatoform disorder has a favorable course. The predictors of the courses of SFD and MUS we found can be integrated into previous explanatory models. The coping with MUS or SFD can be seen as a mediating factor.

yearjournalcountryeditionlanguage
2011-02-01General Hospital Psychiatry
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2011.05.002