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Related Experiment Videos

Clinical features of conversion disorder.

P Grattan-Smith1, M Fairley, P Procopis

  • 1Royal Alexandra Hospital for Children, New South Wales, Australia.

Archives of Disease in Childhood
|April 1, 1988
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

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This study found hysterical conversion disorder in children is more common in girls and peaks during stressful academic periods. Many children experienced significant symptom improvement, though some cases proved challenging to diagnose and treat.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Child Psychology
  • Neuroscience

Background:

  • Hysterical conversion disorder is a complex neurological condition affecting children.
  • Understanding its prevalence, triggers, and outcomes is crucial for effective pediatric care.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To analyze the characteristics of hysterical conversion disorder in a pediatric population.
  • To identify demographic, seasonal, and clinical patterns associated with the disorder.
  • To evaluate treatment responses and diagnostic challenges.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of case notes for 52 children diagnosed with hysterical conversion disorder.
  • Data collection over a 10-year period at a pediatric teaching hospital.
  • Analysis of symptoms, demographics, seasonality, and treatment outcomes.

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Main Results:

  • The disorder was rare under 8 years; girls were more frequently affected (3:1 ratio).
  • Peak incidence occurred during spring/summer, coinciding with academic stress periods.
  • Gait disturbance and sensory abnormalities (predominantly pain) were common presenting symptoms, suggesting a link with psychogenic pain.
  • 32 children showed significant improvement or full recovery upon discharge.
  • A subset of patients presented diagnostic difficulties and poor treatment response.

Conclusions:

  • Hysterical conversion disorder in children exhibits distinct demographic and seasonal patterns.
  • Psychogenic pain is strongly associated with conversion disorder in this age group.
  • While many children recover, a challenging subgroup requires further investigation for optimal management strategies.