Personality disorders in patients with somatisation disorder. A controlled study

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Psychology
• Clinical Medicine

Background:

• Somatisation disorder (SD) is a complex condition characterized by physical symptoms.
• The relationship between somatisation disorder and personality disorders requires further investigation.
• Previous research suggests potential overlaps, but specific personality profiles in SD patients are not well-defined.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence of personality disorders in women diagnosed with somatisation disorder.
• To compare the rates of personality disorders in somatisation disorder patients versus matched controls.
• To identify specific personality disorder traits associated with somatisation disorder.

Main Methods:

• A case-control study involving 25 women with somatisation disorder and matched patient controls.
• Personality assessment using the Personality Assessment Schedule (PAS).
• Blinded interviews, where interviewers were unaware of patients' diagnoses.

Main Results:

• A significantly higher prevalence of personality disorders was observed in somatisation disorder patients (72%) compared to controls (36%).
• Specific personality disorders, including passive-dependent, histrionic, and sensitive-aggressive types, were found more frequently in the somatisation disorder group.
• The findings indicate a strong association between somatisation disorder and the presence of personality disorders.

Conclusions:

• Somatisation disorder in women is frequently comorbid with personality disorders.
• Certain personality traits may predispose individuals to or be associated with somatisation disorder.
• These findings highlight the importance of assessing personality in the diagnosis and treatment of somatisation disorder.