[Systematics of somatoform disorders in children and adolescents]

Somatoform disorders in children and adolescents are common and can cause significantly reduced wellbeing and quality of life. Considerable subjective impairment leads to a high number of doctors' visits, which along with a reoccurrence of negative findings, often results in a sense of helplessness in the patient and a lack of trust towards the physician. The criteria for somatoform disorders are illustrated based on the classification scheme ICD-10 and in consideration of the DSM-V. Referring to Noeker (2008) the special role of the parents for the development of somatoform disorders is explained. The typical clinical profile of somatoform disorders in children and adolescents is described. As a diagnostic instrument the newly developed Screening for Somatoform Disorders in Children and Adolescents (SOMS-CA) (Winter, Pfeiffer, Köberle, Lenz, Lehmkuhl, 2008) is introduced. Furthermore it is demonstrated that patients with somatoform disorders are seen predominantly within consulting and liaison services of the paediatric clinic. The importance of interdisciplinary cooperation between paediatrics and child and adolescent psychiatry and -psychotherapy in early diagnosis and introduction of appropriate treatment is highlighted.