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[Factitious disorder--an iatrogenic disease?].
N J Seersholm1, S Frølich, N H Jensen
1Bispebjerg Hospital, København.
Ugeskrift for Laeger
|July 22, 1991
Summary
This case study examines a 31-year-old woman with extensive healthcare utilization and recurrent pain. It explores potential underlying causes for her complex medical history and suggests preventive strategies.
Area of Science:
- Medical Case Study
- Healthcare Utilization Research
- Patient Management
Background:
- A 31-year-old female patient with a history spanning 12-13 years of frequent healthcare system contact.
- The patient exhibited a wide array of symptoms, with pain being a predominant and recurring reason for medical attention.
- Numerous inpatient admissions and diagnostic examinations were performed, largely yielding unremarkable results.
Observation:
- The patient's medical journey involved extensive interactions with various healthcare services.
- A consistent pattern of diverse complaints, particularly pain, characterized her health-related encounters.
- Despite significant medical investigation, definitive diagnoses remained elusive for many of her symptoms.
Findings:
- Analysis of potential multifactorial background causes contributing to prolonged and complex patient journeys.
- Identification of factors that may lead to extensive healthcare system engagement without clear diagnostic outcomes.
- Discussion of the challenges in managing patients with varied and persistent, yet undiagnosed, symptoms.
Implications:
- Highlights the need for comprehensive diagnostic approaches in complex cases.
- Suggests strategies for preventing prolonged and resource-intensive patient care trajectories.
- Emphasizes the importance of considering psychosocial factors and patient history in healthcare management.