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A family study of hypochondriasis
R Noyes1, C S Holt, R L Happel
1Department of Psychiatry, University of Iowa, College of Medicine, Iowa City 52242-1000, USA.
The Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease
|April 1, 1997
Summary
This study found no increased rate of hypochondriasis in relatives of patients with hypochondriasis. Findings suggest hypochondriasis may be a feature of other psychopathology, like somatization disorder.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
- Family Studies
Background:
- Hypochondriasis is a disorder characterized by excessive preoccupation with physical illness.
- Its diagnostic validity and familial transmission require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the diagnostic validity of hypochondriasis through a preliminary family study.
- To determine if hypochondriasis aggregates in families.
Main Methods:
- A family study comparing first-degree relatives of probands with and without DSM-III-R hypochondriasis.
- Utilized Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV and self-administered questionnaires for symptoms and traits.
Main Results:
- No significant increase in hypochondriasis rates was observed in relatives of hypochondriasis probands compared to controls.
- Somatization disorder was more frequent in relatives of hypochondriasis probands.
- These relatives reported higher hostility, antagonism, and dissatisfaction with medical care.
Conclusions:
- Hypochondriasis may not be an independent disorder but rather a feature of broader psychopathology.
- Findings suggest a potential link between hypochondriasis, somatization disorder, and specific personality traits.