Neurodevelopmental Impairments in Adult Psychosomatic Patients

Background/Objectives: Neuropsychological, neurodevelopmental, or minimal cerebral dysfunctions (MCD) can be found in many patients with mental disorders. They can be masked by other symptoms, impair the course of the illness, and impair work and social participation. Despite a long history of research, there is still a lack of data on the spectrum, prevalence, and consequences of these dysfunctions in patients with chronic illness. In this study, we compared patients with and without a history of neurocognitive problems in childhood for present neuropsychological dysfunctions. Methods: A convenience sample of 1453 psychosomatic inpatients completed the MCD scale, assessing neurodevelopmental issues in childhood and current neuropsychological dysfunctions. Additional assessments were the Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Self Rating Scale (ADHS-SB) and the Symptom Checklist 90 (SCL-90). Results: Significant early neurodevelopmental problems were reported by 8.87% of the patients. This group also reported a significantly higher rate of MCD symptoms and general psychosomatic symptoms (SCL-90) as compared with other patients. Conclusions: There is a notable prevalence of neuropsychological dysfunctions in psychosomatic patients in general, and especially in those with early neurodevelopmental problems. To adequately address specific potentially participation-relevant impairments, a broader diagnostic approach is necessary, including exploration of MCD history and present neuropsychological dysfunctions.