[Use of medical inpatient services by heavy users: a case of hypochondriasis]

Hypochondriasis is defined by ICD-10 and DSM-IV through the persistent preoccupation with the possibility of having one or more serious and progressive physical disorders. Patients suffering from hypochondriasis can be responsible for a high utilization of mental health system services. Data have shown that "Heavy User" require a disproportionate part of inpatient admissions and mental health budget costs. We assume that a psychotherapeutic approach, targeting a cognitive behavioral model in combination with neuropsychopharmacological treatment is useful. In our case report we present the "Heavy Using-Phenomenon" based on a patient hospitalized predominantly in neurological inpatient care facilities. From a medical point of view we want to point out to possible treatment errors, on the other hand we want to make aware of financial-socioeconomic factors leading to a massive burden on the global mental health budget.