Adult Psychiatry Flashcards
(59 cards)
According to psychodynamic theory, what do the symptoms of Somatoform Disorder represent?
Repressed impulses
Psychodynamic theory suggests that physical symptoms are manifestations of repressed emotional conflicts.
What is alexithymia in the context of Somatoform Disorder?
Lack of language to describe emotions
Individuals with alexithymia often describe their emotions through physical complaints.
What psychosocial factors contribute to Somatoform Disorder?
Dysfunctional family, abuse, low SES/education level
These factors can influence the development of Somatoform Disorder.
What is the minimum duration for complaints to meet the diagnostic criteria for Somatoform Disorder according to ICD-10?
At least 2 years
Symptoms must persist for a significant period without a detectable physical disorder.
What is a key characteristic of the preoccupation with symptoms in Somatoform Disorder?
Chronic preoccupation with symptoms, persistent distress
Patients often seek consultations despite medical reassurance of no physical cause.
How many symptoms must be present for a diagnosis of Somatoform Disorder?
6 or more symptoms occurring in at least 2 separate body systems
eg. pain in limbs/joints, chest pain, abdominal pain, dysuria
What is a notable feature of Somatoform Disorder regarding laboratory tests?
No laboratory abnormalities
Symptoms may not align with anatomical or physiological knowledge.
What is the typical course of Somatoform Disorder?
Early onset, chronic course
The condition may develop following a traumatic event.
What is a general management strategy for Somatoform Disorder?
Regular appointments with a fixed, regular physician
This helps build a trusting relationship and continuity of care.
What type of therapy is recommended for Somatoform Disorder?
Psychotherapy
Non-pharmacological approaches like psychotherapy can be effective.
Which class of medication is used for Somatisation Disorder?
SSRI
SSRIs are commonly prescribed for managing symptoms of Somatisation Disorder.
What medication is often used for Somatoform Pain Disorder?
SNRI
SNRIs can help manage pain symptoms associated with this disorder.
What is hypochondriasis?
A condition where individuals are convinced they have a serious illness, lasting for at least 6 months
Hypochondriasis often involves excessive worry about health despite medical reassurance.
What is somatoform disorder?
A condition where individuals seek symptomatic relief without a clear physical cause
Somatoform disorders can include symptoms that are distressing but do not have a medical explanation.
What is the key difference between hypochondriasis and somatoform disorder?
Hypochondriasis involves belief in having a serious illness, while somatoform disorder involves seeking symptomatic relief
Hypochondriasis is characterized by persistent fear of illness.
What is malingering?
A condition where individuals have a clear objective to gain money
Malingering is often associated with intentional deception for external rewards.
What is factitious disorder?
A condition often referred to as ‘hospital addiction syndrome’
Individuals with factitious disorder intentionally produce or feign symptoms for the sake of being seen as ill.
What is Munchausen syndrome?
A type of factitious disorder where individuals seek to gain the ‘sick role’
Munchausen syndrome involves the intentional production of symptoms to receive medical attention.
What is Munchausen syndrome by proxy?
A condition where parents impose the sick role on their child
This form of factitious disorder can lead to serious harm to the child.
True or False: Malingering and factitious disorder are the same.
False
Malingering involves external incentives, while factitious disorder involves creating symptoms for psychological reasons.
What does the term ‘Borderline’ refer to in the context of Borderline Personality Disorder?
In between neurotic and psychotic disorder, involving mood problems and psychotic symptoms (paranoia) under stress
What is the female-to-male ratio in the epidemiology of Borderline Personality Disorder?
3:1
What psychosocial factors contribute to the development of Borderline Personality Disorder?
- Hx of childhood trauma
- Lack of parental love
- Unpredictable parents
- Insecure early attachment leading to fear of abandonment
What are the clinical features of Borderline Personality Disorder?
- Impulsivity
- Moodiness
- Paranoia
- Unstable self-image
- Labile, intense relationships
- Suicidal/self-injurious behavior
- Inappropriate anger
- Vulnerable to abandonment
- Emptiness
