Dissociated state. Status of a case after 38 years

This is the third report of a patient with dissociated personality followed for 38 years. There has been a gradual integration of the dissociated states. The most remarkable aspect of the clinical course has been the patient's excellent work record in contrast to a severe restriction in her social life. The original diagnosis of hysteria was changed to schizophrenia. Evidence is presented to show that the diagnosis of schizophrenia was incorrect. The authors believe that dissociated states occur more frequently than diagnosed, and that the syndrome should be given independent diagnostic status.