Ganser state: a case of hysterical pseudodementia

This case history shows the clinical features of a Ganser-like syndrome, in which two basic dilemmas readily present themselves to the clinician. First, careful neurologic, psychiatric, and psychosocial investigation is essential for differential diagnosis. And second, criteria must be established to distinguish a true Ganser syndrome from Ganser symptoms. Ultimately, one must ask where this "syndrome" or constellation of symptoms belongs on the spectrum of psychosis and hysteria.