[Early onset conversion disorder: a case report].

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Neurology
• Child Psychiatry

Background:

• Conversion disorder involves functional impairment in motor, sensory, or neurovegetative systems without a clear medical cause.
• While rare in Western countries, studies indicate a higher prevalence in our nation's child and adolescent psychiatry clinics.
• This disorder is more common in adolescents and young adults than in young children.

Observation:

• This case report details an 8-year-old girl diagnosed with conversion disorder, with symptoms beginning at age three.
• Her condition was persistent, unresponsive to non-psychiatric treatments, and included inability to walk, bed dependence, leg jerking, contractures, and spinal curvature.
• The patient presented with significant functional deficits impacting mobility and daily activities.

Findings:

• The patient experienced a complete recovery following targeted therapeutic interventions.
• The case highlights the potential for successful treatment outcomes in pediatric conversion disorder.
• Early diagnosis and comprehensive treatment were crucial for the patient's recovery.

Implications:

• Emphasizes the need for increased awareness and early diagnosis of conversion disorder in children within our country.
• Highlights the importance of interdisciplinary cooperation for effective treatment strategies.
• Suggests that prompt and appropriate interventions can lead to full recovery in pediatric cases.