It is important to consider malingering as a differential diagnosis in patients who present with atypical features and have clear external incentives for their behaviour. With improved health literacy and access to health information, individuals who are marginalized in society and have limited social and occupational opportunities may malinger symptoms for obvious personal gain. Inconsistency between reported symptoms and clinical observations, as well as contradictory collateral information from multiple sources, are helpful tools in diagnosing malingering. It is important for clinicians to identify malingerers early and limit unnecessary admissions.
It is important to consider malingering as a differential diagnosis in patients who present with atypical features and have clear external incentives for their behaviour. With improved health literacy and access to health information, individuals who are marginalized in society and have limited social and occupational opportunities may malinger symptoms for obvious personal gain. Inconsistency between reported symptoms and clinical observations, as well as contradictory collateral information from multiple sources, are helpful tools in diagnosing malingering. It is important for clinicians to identify malingerers early and limit unnecessary admissions.
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