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[The prognosis of medically unexplained symptoms]
D J C Hanssen1, H Knoop, J G M Rosmalen
1UMCG, afd. Psychiatrie, Groningen.
Nederlands Tijdschrift Voor Geneeskunde
|November 4, 2017
Summary
Medically unexplained symptoms (MUS) often resolve spontaneously within a year. However, multiple symptoms and unhelpful thoughts predict a poorer prognosis, necessitating close patient monitoring and tailored interventions.
Area of Science:
- Medical prognosis
- Psychosomatic medicine
- General practice
Background:
- Medically unexplained symptoms (MUS) are physical symptoms lacking a clear somatic cause.
- Diagnosis of MUS is common in primary care settings.
- Prognosis of MUS is variable and requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of current insights into the prognosis of MUS.
- To identify predictors of favourable and unfavourable outcomes in MUS patients.
- To inform clinical practice regarding the management of MUS.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on MUS prognosis.
- Analysis of symptom-related and psychological characteristics influencing prognosis.
- Synthesis of existing guidelines for MUS management.
Main Results:
- Extensive somatic testing rarely yields a diagnosis in MUS patients.
- Approximately 50% of MUS cases resolve spontaneously within one year.
- Predictors of unfavourable prognosis include experiencing multiple physical symptoms and unhelpful thoughts.
Conclusions:
- Close monitoring of MUS patients is crucial for timely intervention.
- Tailored treatment based on individual patient characteristics and existing guidelines can improve outcomes.
- Understanding prognostic factors aids in preventing unfavourable disease courses.
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