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[The "expert-killer" syndrome (author's transl)].
Deutsche Medizinische Wochenschrift (1946)
|March 4, 1977
Summary
The "expert-killer" syndrome is a narcissistic condition causing diffuse pain, multiple surgeries, and relationship issues. Psychotherapy is the recommended treatment for this functional pain disorder.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Psychology
- Medical Sociology
Background:
- The
- expert-killer
- syndrome is a distinct narcissistic subdivision within organic neuroses, characterized by specific clinical features.
Observation:
- Clinical presentation includes diffuse pain (abdomen, neck, back), numerous investigations/operations, lack of diagnosis/treatment, and pathological doctor-patient relationships.
- Patients exhibit narcissistic traits, idealize then reject doctors, and have brief tolerance for medical contact.
- Syndrome onset is linked to disappointment in an idealized partner, triggering a narcissistic insult.
Findings:
- Functional pains serve as a coping mechanism to restore the threatened self.
- The syndrome's basis lies in indefinite, functional somatic pains, leading to aggressive diagnostic pursuits.
- Multiple surgical interventions are a common feature in patient histories.
Implications:
- Understanding the narcissistic underpinnings is crucial for effective patient management.
- Psychotherapy is indicated as the primary treatment modality.
- This syndrome highlights the complex interplay between psychological distress and somatic symptoms.