[A suspected case of factitious disorder]

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Internal Medicine
• Medical Psychology

Background:

• Factitious disorder (FD) is characterized by the intentional simulation or induction of illness in oneself.
• The primary motivation is to assume the sick role to receive attention and care, driven by psychological distress.

Observation:

• A 46-year-old woman presented with unexplained prolonged prothrombin time and recurrent hematomas.
• Initial investigations failed to reveal an organic cause for her hematological abnormalities.

Findings:

• A comprehensive evaluation, including detailed history and multidisciplinary team discussions, led to a suspected diagnosis of factitious disorder.
• The patient's presentation was consistent with self-induced medical conditions rather than an underlying organic disease.

Implications:

• This case underscores the critical need for clinicians to maintain a high index of suspicion for factitious disorder in complex presentations.
• Further research is essential to improve diagnostic strategies and therapeutic approaches for factitious disorder.