Towards positive diagnostic criteria: A systematic review of somatoform disorder diagnoses and suggestions for future classification

Somatoform disorders and causal attributions in patients with suspected allergies: Do somatic causal attributions matter?

“…This lack of boundaries between the various diagnostic categories lends support to the suggestion of reducing the number of these categories (Leiknes et al, 2008). Further, it suggests that a dimensional classification of these disorders may be more productive and clinically viable (Jablensky, 2005;Voigt et al, 2010;Wessely et al, 1999).…”

“…Conversely, psychiatric disorders such as depression and anxiety are considered as mental disorders despite notable somatic symptoms (Okasha, 2003) . The above authors therefore suggest adopting a positive, multidimensional approach to future diagnostic criteria, including physiological, psychological, and social factors, to improve clinical validity (see also Voigt et al, 2010).…”

“…The consensus is that positive psychological and behavioural criteria are called for in the definition of SFDs Löwe et al, 2008a;Voigt et al, 2010). One of the proposed dimensions is that of causal illness attribution (De Gucht & Maes, 2006;Dimsdale & Creed, 2009;Duddu et al, 2006;Henningsen et al, 2002;Kroenke et al, 2007;Löwe et al, 2008a;Rief & Isaac, 2007;Stone et al, 2005b;Wessely et al, 1999).…”

Is all we know that we know nothing? A critical review of the prevalence of somatoform disorders in the elderly

“…Voigt and colleagues [60] recently evaluated the new criteria in terms of clinical utility and construct, descrip- Table 3. APA proposal for the revision of the somatoform disorder category (57).…”

Difficult ("heartsink") patients and clinical communication difficulties

“…76 Differential diagnosis of somatoform disorders should include general organic disease, depression with somatic complaints (masked depression), domestic violence, different types of anxiety and panic disorders with maladjustment, and schizophrenia. [77][78][79] On occasions, the diagnosis of an organic disease is not made because the patient has an illness that does not alter their overall health or the physician does not request a diagnostic test due to its cost, the filling out of long and cumbersome forms, or because it was not contemplated within the institutional protocol. Appropriate tests should not be omitted in any given case before considering a psychiatric diagnosis.…”