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Is globus hystericus?
J A Wilson1, I J Deary, A G Maran
1University of Edinburgh Department of Otolaryngology.
The British Journal of Psychiatry : the Journal of Mental Science
|September 1, 1988
Summary
Globus sensation patients often show no physical cause. Psychological factors, like neuroticism in females, correlate with symptoms, suggesting globus may model conversion disorders.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Gastroenterology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Globus sensation is a common complaint in ear, nose, and throat (ENT) departments.
- The physical basis for globus sensation is often elusive, necessitating comprehensive investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the physical and psychological underpinnings of globus sensation.
- To explore the potential of globus sensation as a model for conversion disorders.
Main Methods:
- Investigated 46 patients (37 female, 9 male) with globus sensation.
- Utilized radiology, manometry, endoscopy, ambulatory pH monitoring, Eysenck Personality Inventory (EPI), and General Health Questionnaire (GHQ).
Main Results:
- Only 8 patients had organic abnormalities: 7 with abnormal esophageal acid exposure, 1 with esophageal spasm.
- Female patients were identified as neurotic introverts (EPI), while males were stable ambiverts.
- 13 females (35%) and 1 male scored high on GHQ, with a correlation between EPI neuroticism scores and GHQ scores.
Conclusions:
- Globus sensation is frequently without a clear organic cause.
- Psychological factors, particularly neuroticism in females, are significantly associated with globus sensation.
- Globus sensation serves as a valuable model for studying conversion disorders.