Conversion disorder

Definition

Conversion disorder is a psychiatric condition in which emotional distress or unconscious conflict are expressed through physical symptoms.

Alternative Names

Causes

Conversion disorder is one of several types of somatoform disorders in which psychological problems produce physical symptoms.

These disorders have been highly stigmatized, with many physicians telling patients that the problem is "all in your head." Research on the connection between mind and body is increasing our understanding of these disorders and should reduce the stigma as it becomes clear that these conditions are real, cause real distress, and cannot be turned on and off at will.

The onset of symptoms in this disorder is usually very sudden and follows a stressful experience. Loss of function, such as the inability to move a limb, may unconsciously symbolize the underlying conflict associated with the experience. Medical illness is a major risk factor for conversion disorder. Studies have shown that many patients suspected of having the disorder actually have an underlying medical illness. Many patients with this disorder also have an dissociative or personality disorder.