[Alexithymia. A new syndrome?]

The concept of alexithymia introduced by Sifneos is analyzed in relationship to its symptomatology. Its nosographic significance in the framework of character disorders is discussed. The distinction between psychosomatic manifestations and alexithymic behavior must be maintained as their causal relationship put to further questioning. Fiable methods of measurement of alexithymia must be developed so as to give the concept more operational value in the prognosis and treatment of psychosomatic disorders.