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Hysterical neurosis, conversion type: clinical and epidemiological considerations
Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica
|February 1, 1976
Summary
Hysterical neurosis, conversion type, was more common in New York than Iceland. This condition disproportionately affected women, non-whites, and those with lower socioeconomic status, often presenting with multiple symptoms and co-occurring illnesses.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Epidemiology
- Psychosomatic Medicine
Background:
- Hysterical neurosis, conversion type, is a complex psychiatric condition.
- Understanding its prevalence and characteristics is crucial for diagnosis and treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence rates of hysterical neurosis, conversion type, in different geographical locations.
- To identify demographic and clinical factors associated with hysterical neurosis, conversion type.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of data from psychiatric case registers in Monroe County, New York, and Iceland (1960-1969).
- Review of cases from a university hospital psychiatric consultation service.
- Examination of diagnostic criteria, symptom presentation, and co-occurring conditions.
Main Results:
- Incidence rates were 22 per 100,000 annually in Monroe County versus 11 per 100,000 in Iceland.
- Higher rates were observed in women, non-white individuals, and those of lower socioeconomic status.
- Conversion symptoms were frequently linked to psychological stress, with pain being the most common symptom; most patients had multiple symptoms and co-occurring illnesses.
Conclusions:
- Hysterical neurosis, conversion type, exhibits significant geographical and demographic variations.
- Psychological stress is a key precipitant, and the condition often presents with complex symptom clusters and comorbidities.