A Review on Somatoform Disorders.

Abstract

This article provides an overview of somatoform disorders. It focuses on the symptoms presented and factors that contribute to the development of somatoform disorders. Discussion:-Somatoform disorders , now also known as somatic symptom disorder(SSD) are a group of physiological disorders in which a patient experiences physical symptoms that cannot be classified nor fully explained by any general medical or neurological condition. Medically unexplained physical symptoms account for as many as 50% of new medical outpatient visits (1). Emotional symptoms, anxiety disorders, depression and substance use as well as personality disorders and childhood abuse are often comorbid with both unexplained physical symptoms and somatoform disorders(2). Somatoform disorders cause excessive and disproportionate levels of distress. It can present with symptoms such as pain which is the most common symptom, weakness, paralysis, abnormal movements such as tremor or unsteady gait, blindness, hearing loss or loss of sensation and numbness. Somatoform disorders are observed worldwide, more often in woman, with first symptoms appearing by age 25(3).