Conversion disorders

Classification, diagnostic and therapeutic problems are central to the disease concept of conversion disorders, which are based on the presentation of psychosocial suffering by means of pseudoneurological symptoms without an organic cause. The nosological status in the current diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (DSM-IV) and international classification of diseases (ICD-10) is disputed. Prevalence rates ranging from 0.3 % in the general population to 50 % in high risk clinical samples underline the relevance. Traumatic experiences play a major role in the pathogenesis. High rates of comorbid mental disorders, the danger to end in a chronic course, a high secondary illness gain and a somatic illness concept complicate psychotherapeutic approaches which are clearly indicated. Clinical experiences and open studies indicate that both psychodynamic as well as cognitive-behaviour therapies are effective.