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The significance of somatization
1Department of Psychiatry, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque.
Homeostasis in Health and Disease : International Journal Devoted to Integrative Brain Functions and Homeostatic Systems
|April 1, 1991
Summary
Many medical patients experience somatization, which involves physical symptoms without clear organic causes or disproportionate impairment. Effective treatments exist, but few patients receive them, highlighting a significant gap in care.
Area of Science:
- Medical Psychology
- Psychosomatic Medicine
- Clinical Psychiatry
Background:
- Somatization is a prevalent condition among patients seeking medical care.
- It is characterized by physical complaints lacking adequate organic explanation or presenting with impairment exceeding physical findings.
- Understanding the multifaceted nature of somatization is crucial for effective patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and summarize key research findings on somatization.
- To define somatization for the scope of the review.
- To highlight the gap between effective treatments and patient access.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of main research on somatization.
- Adoption of a specific definition for somatization for the review.
- Synthesis of etiological factors and treatment outcomes.
Main Results:
- A significant percentage of individuals in medical settings present with somatization.
- Etiological factors are diverse and individualized.
- Evidence supports treatment efficacy, yet undertreatment is common.
Conclusions:
- Somatization represents a substantial burden on healthcare systems.
- Individualized etiological factors necessitate tailored treatment approaches.
- Improving access to appropriate somatization treatment is a critical unmet need.