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Psychiatric comorbidity in gender identity disorder
U Hepp1, B Kraemer, U Schnyder
1Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital, Culmannstrasse 8, Zurich CH-8091, Switzerland. urs.hepp@usz.ch
Journal of Psychosomatic Research
|May 4, 2005
Summary
Psychiatric comorbidity is common in individuals with gender identity disorder (GID). This study found that a significant majority of GID patients experience current and/or lifetime Axis I disorders and personality disorders, highlighting the need for comprehensive assessment and treatment planning.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Mental Health
- Gender Identity Research
Background:
- Psychiatric comorbidity is a known prognostic factor in gender identity disorder (GID).
- Standardized diagnostic instruments have been underutilized for assessing comorbidity in GID.
- Understanding the prevalence of psychiatric conditions is crucial for effective GID patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess current and lifetime psychiatric comorbidity in patients diagnosed with gender identity disorder (GID).
- To utilize standardized diagnostic tools for a comprehensive evaluation of psychiatric conditions in GID.
- To inform clinical assessment and treatment planning for individuals with GID.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study design was employed.
- Thirty-one patients treated for GID were evaluated.
- The Structured Clinical Interview for Axis I and II (SCID-I/II) and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) were utilized for assessment.
Main Results:
- 29% of patients had no current or lifetime Axis I disorder.
- 39% had a current Axis I disorder, and 71% had current and/or lifetime Axis I disorders.
- 42% of patients were diagnosed with one or more personality disorders.
Conclusions:
- Lifetime psychiatric comorbidity is highly prevalent among GID patients.
- These findings underscore the importance of considering comorbidity in the assessment and treatment strategies for GID.
- Standardized diagnostic tools are essential for accurate comorbidity assessment in GID.
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