Related Experiment Videos
Somatization disorder in men
Abstract:
Somatization disorder is thought to be rare in men. This paper reviews five previously reported cases of somatization disorder in men and reports nine new cases referred from primary care physicians. These men have most of the associated features of the disorder, are of lower socioeconomic status, and have other significant psychiatric diagnoses. Eight of the nine men had a dramatic precipitating event at the onset of their illness. This diagnosis appears to be applicable to men and needs to be considered in men with multiple, recurrent unexplained medical symptoms.
Insights
Somatization disorder, previously thought rare in men, is presented in nine new cases. These men exhibit typical disorder features, often linked to lower socioeconomic status and other psychiatric conditions, suggesting broader applicability of the diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Men's Health
- Somatic Symptom Disorders
Background:
- Somatization disorder is traditionally considered rare in the male population.
- Limited research exists on the presentation and characteristics of somatization disorder in men.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing literature on somatization disorder in men.
- To report new cases of somatization disorder in men referred from primary care.
- To assess the applicability of the somatization disorder diagnosis in men.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of previously reported cases of somatization disorder in men.
- Case series of nine new male patients referred from primary care physicians.
- Clinical assessment of patient demographics, socioeconomic status, psychiatric comorbidities, and illness precipitants.
Main Results:
- Five previously reported cases were reviewed.
- Nine new cases of somatization disorder in men were identified and described.
- These men shared associated features of the disorder, lower socioeconomic status, and significant psychiatric comorbidities.
- Eight of the nine new cases experienced a dramatic precipitating event at illness onset.
Conclusions:
- The diagnosis of somatization disorder is applicable to men.
- Clinicians should consider somatization disorder in men presenting with multiple, recurrent, unexplained medical symptoms.
- Further research is warranted to understand the prevalence and specific characteristics of somatization disorder in men.