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Chaudhry HA, Okonkwo CC, Inban P, Intsiful TA, Ezenagu UE, Odoma VA, Kumar S, Mahjabeen SS, Patra SS, Modi NM, Fewajesuyan AT, Nabeel Makkiyah SF, Abdefatah Ali M, Khan A. Factors in the Development of Somatoform Disorders Among Children: A Case-Control Study. Cureus 2023; 15:e43238. [PMID: 37692659 PMCID: PMC10491496 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.43238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Somatoform disorders (SFDs) are a spectrum of diseases mainly manifesting with physical symptoms of no recognizable etiology. These disorders are believed to be primarily influenced and exacerbated by psychological factors. Given the connection between parental sociodemographics and psychological factors and SFDs, there is a pressing need to investigate this area further, particularly concerning parents and their children affected by somatoform disorders. Aims and objectives The aims and objectives of this study are as follows: i) study the determinants of SFDs, namely, parent handling of child, parent-child relationship, parenting with respect to attending to the needs of children, and intelligence quotient (IQ) of parents, and ii) compare host factors to the factors matched in control subjects. Materials and methods We adopted purposive sampling in our case-control study. The study sample was obtained from the psychiatry department of the Ganesh Shankar Vidyarthi Memorial (GSVM) Medical College, Kanpur, India, from September 2020 to December 2022, once a week, every Monday. Children manifesting SFD manifestations that are among the chief complaints were included in our study. Results A total of 115 cases were included in our study based on inclusion criteria. The study compared sociodemographic characteristics, intelligence quotient (IQ), parental characteristics, parental handling, parent-child relationships, and parenting practices between a patient group and a control group. The results showed no significant differences in sex, religion, occupation, domicile, and socioeconomic status in both control and patient groups. However, significant differences were found in parental characteristics, such as lower mean age, education, and IQ, in the patient group. This difference between the patient and control groups with respect to the parental handling questionnaire was statistically significant for the domain of "praise," "talk," "feel better," "comes to you," "unduly strict" items, "frequently reprimanded," "tried to control everything," creative activities, protectiveness, education, neglecting, objective punishment, housing, medical care, demanding, symbolic reward, loving, objective reward, food, parent-to-child communication, clothing, support, routine, recreation, social activities, rules, managing problem behavior, guidance for career, and security. Conclusion Parents were deficient in terms of years of education, occupational status, IQ, parental handling, parent-child relationship, and parenting with respect to the children's needs. These findings offer insights into the sociodemographic and psychological factors contributing to the patient group's condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hassan A Chaudhry
- Biological Sciences, Temple University, Philadelphia, USA
- Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, POL
| | - Chinwe C Okonkwo
- Family Medicine, Caribbean Medical University School of Medicine, Willemstad, CUW
| | | | | | | | - Victor A Odoma
- Cardiology/Oncology, Indiana University (IU) Health, Bloomington, USA
| | - Sumit Kumar
- Internal Medicine, Armed Forces Medical College, Pune, IND
| | - Syeda Sarah Mahjabeen
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Madinah Maternity and Children Hospital, Al-Madinah al-Munawwarah, SAU
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao University of Health Sciences (NTRUHS), Hyderabad, IND
| | | | - Nishi M Modi
- Medicine, Government Medical College, Surat, IND
| | | | | | | | - Aadil Khan
- Internal Medicine, Lala Lajpat Rai (LLR) Hospital, Kanpur, IND
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Shanker G, Sharma I. Study of Determinants of Somatoform Disorders in Children. Cureus 2023; 15:e36447. [PMID: 37090357 PMCID: PMC10118218 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.36447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Somatoform disorders constitute a group of illnesses that present with predominant physical symptoms for which there is no demonstrable etiology, and psychological factors are implicated in initiating, exacerbating, and maintaining the disorder. AIM AND OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to study a host of factors, namely, the I.Q. of children, scholastic performance in the last three years, the past history of medical illness, psychiatric disorders in the family, and life stress in the last year, and to compare these factors with those in matched control subjects. This study looked at the effects of somatoform disorders on children's I.Q., scholastic performance in the previous three years, a history of medical illness, psychiatric disorders in the family, and life stress in the previous year. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this case-control study, a sample was selected from the child guidance clinic of the psychiatry outpatient department (OPD) of the University Hospital, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India. The time period of study was from January 2011 to June 2012. All the patients who presented to the child guidance clinic of the psychiatry OPD with one or more somatic symptoms as among their chief complaints were screened. All subjects fulfilling the selection criteria were recruited into the study. An I.Q. test was administered to the children, and the raw score for the verbal and performance tests was calculated. Children above the age of 16 years were assessed with the Wechsler Adult Performance Intelligence Scale. RESULTS One hundred fifteen cases that fulfilled the selection criteria were studied. About 14.6% (N = 11) of the patients had a history of significant physical illness as opposed to 12.5% (N = 5) in healthy controls. The scholastic performance in the last three years of the patients group was poorer than that of the control group. The mean number of stressful life events in the patients group was 5.95±1.77 (range: 1-10), and in the control group, it was 1.25±0.43 (range: 1-3). CONCLUSION Compared to controls, patients had a significantly lower I.Q. and poorer scholastic performance in the last three years, a more frequent past history of medical illness, and a greater frequency of life stress in the areas of studies, health, family-related issues, and interpersonal issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ganesh Shanker
- Department of Psychiatry, G.S.V.M. (Ganesh Shankar Vidyarthi Memorial) Medical College, Kanpur, IND
| | - Indira Sharma
- Department of Psychiatry, Institute of Medical Sciences, BHU (Banaras Hindu University), Varanasi, IND
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Watson A, Eckersley R, Horwitz MD, Tolerton SK, Zlotolow DA. Adolescent Wrist Pain. J Hand Surg Am 2022; 47:1108-1114. [PMID: 36207227 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2022.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Adolescence is a difficult time, both physically and emotionally. Rapid growth coupled with physical changes in the background of high levels of activity can be overwhelming. Meanwhile, unfamiliar life stressors coupled with undeveloped compensatory mechanisms can lead to overwhelming anxiety and emotional distress. Emotional factors can make injuries and overuse syndromes feel more catastrophic. Occasionally, an adolescent's emotional distress can manifest physically, without antecedent injury or physiologic cause. Understanding the psychological milieu is as important as understanding the disease processes that can affect adolescents if one hopes to manage these patients effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Watson
- Chelsea & Westminster Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Maxim D Horwitz
- Chelsea & Westminster Hospital, London, United Kingdom; Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah K Tolerton
- Sydney Hospital and Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, Australia; University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
| | - Dan A Zlotolow
- Thomas Jefferson University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA; Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY; Shriners Hospital for Children Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA.
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Prevalence, Patterns, and Correlates of Pain in Medically Hospitalized Pediatric Patients With Somatic Symptom and Related Disorders. J Acad Consult Liaison Psychiatry 2020; 62:46-55. [PMID: 32641234 DOI: 10.1016/j.psym.2020.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2020] [Revised: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Somatic symptom and related disorders (SSRDs) and pain are highly comorbid in the pediatric population. Little is known about the prevalence of pain and factors that may predispose and perpetuate pain in hospitalized youth with SSRD. OBJECTIVE To describe the prevalence of pain and widespread pain symptoms in hospitalized youth with SSRD and describe differences between patients who endorsed limited (1-4 sites) versus widespread (5-8 sites) pain. METHODS Retrospective chart reviews were conducted of pediatric patients with SSRD seen over a 32-month period at a tertiary pediatric hospital and assessed by the psychiatry consultation service. During admission, patients completed the Childhood Somatization Inventory, which assessed pain and other physical symptoms. Descriptive statistics, one-way analysis of variances, Pearson's χ2, stepwise linear regressions, and internal consistency analyses were used. RESULTS Of the 219 patients (aged 8-18 y), 97% reported pain symptoms, and of those reporting pain (n = 213), 48% reported widespread pain. Patients with widespread pain had greater rates of comorbid depression (P = 0.012), neglect (P = 0.016), family psychiatric history (P = 0.013), diagnostic tests/procedures (P = 0.012), and prescribed opioid use (P = 0.016), when other medical and demographic factors were considered. When compared dichotomously to youth with limited pain, there was no difference in prevalence of medical conditions; however, patients with widespread pain had higher rates of trauma and stressor-related disorders (P = 0.017), sexual abuse (P = 0.031), emotional abuse (P = 0.041), and prior child protective service involvement (P = 0.011). CONCLUSIONS Pain symptoms and widespread pain are common in medically hospitalized youth with SSRD, with unique psychiatric and psychosocial factors associated with widespread pain.
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Kullgren KA, Shefler A, Malas N, Monroe K, Leber SM, Sroufe N, El Sakr A, Pomeranz E, O'Brien E, Mychaliska KP. Taking the Pain out of Somatization: Development and Implementation of a Hospital-Based Clinical Practice Guideline to Address Pediatric Somatic Symptom and Related Disorders. Hosp Pediatr 2020; 10:105-113. [PMID: 31896546 DOI: 10.1542/hpeds.2019-0141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The diagnostic category of somatic symptom and related disorders (SSRDs), although common, is often poorly recognized and suboptimally managed in inpatient pediatric care. Little literature exists to address SSRDs in the inpatient pediatric setting. The purpose of the study was to characterize current SSRD practice, identify problem areas in workflow, and develop a standardized approach to inpatient evaluation and management at a tertiary care academic children's hospital. METHODS A multidisciplinary group identified patients with SSRD admitted between May 2012 and October 2014. A retrospective chart review on a convenience sample was performed to identify population characteristics and current practice. Lean methodology was used to define current state practice and future state intervention. These methods were used to guide identification of problem areas, which informed protocol, a clinical practice guideline, and resource development. RESULTS Thirty-six patients aged 8 to 17 years met inclusion criteria for chart review. Most patients presented with either neurologic or pain-related complaints. The mean length of stay was 5.44 days (SD = 6.3), with few patients receiving a mental health consultation within 24 hours of hospitalization. Patients averaged 5.8 medical and/or psychiatric diagnoses on discharge (SD = 5.2), and two-thirds did not have an SSRD diagnosis. Half of patients had comorbid psychiatric diagnoses, whereas one-quarter were discharged with no mental health follow-up. CONCLUSIONS In this study, we describe the process and content development of a single-site institutional protocol, clinical practice guideline, and resources for the evaluation and management of pediatric SSRDs. This study may serve as a model for similar standardization of SSRD care in other inpatient pediatric medical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alanna Shefler
- Medical School, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Nasuh Malas
- Pediatrics
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Departments of Psychiatry
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Agarwal HS. Conversion Disorder Manifesting as Functional Visual Loss. J Emerg Med 2019; 57:94-96. [PMID: 31003815 DOI: 10.1016/j.jemermed.2019.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2018] [Revised: 02/07/2019] [Accepted: 02/10/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children with conversion disorder experience neurological symptoms without a definable organic cause. Clinical presentation of conversion disorders is uncommon in the emergency department (ED). CASE REPORT An 11-year-old previously healthy girl presented to the ED for management of lobar pneumonia. She developed acute visual loss subsequent to accidental placement of an intra-arterial cannula in her arm. Clinical assessments by the emergency physician, neurology, ophthalmology, and psychiatry services, and negative neuroimaging studies established the diagnosis of functional visual loss as a manifestation of conversion disorder. WHY SHOULD AN EMERGENCY PHYSICIAN BE AWARE OF THIS?: Conversion disorder symptoms are often without any specific markers and do not fit standard clinical guidelines. A comprehensive and step-wise evaluation of unusual clinical presentation by multiple specialties and ancillary test results should be considered to rule out organic causes and establish the diagnosis of conversion disorder, as seen in our patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hemant S Agarwal
- Department of Pediatrics, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico
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Ibeziako P, Brahmbhatt K, Chapman A, De Souza C, Giles L, Gooden S, Latif F, Malas N, Namerow L, Russell R, Steinbuchel P, Pao M, Plioplys S. Developing a Clinical Pathway for Somatic Symptom and Related Disorders in Pediatric Hospital Settings. Hosp Pediatr 2019; 9:147-155. [PMID: 30782623 PMCID: PMC11034856 DOI: 10.1542/hpeds.2018-0205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Somatic symptom and related disorders (SSRDs) are commonly encountered in pediatric hospital settings. There is, however, a lack of standardization of care across institutions for youth with these disorders. These patients are diagnostically and psychosocially complex, posing significant challenges for medical and behavioral health care providers. SSRDs are associated with significant health care use, cost to families and hospitals, and risk for iatrogenic interventions and missed diagnoses. With sponsorship from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and input from multidisciplinary stakeholders, we describe the first attempt to develop a clinical pathway and standardize the care of patients with SSRDs in pediatric hospital settings by a working group of pediatric consultation-liaison psychiatrists from multiple institutions across North America. The authors of the SSRD clinical pathway outline 5 key steps from admission to discharge and include practical, evidence-informed approaches to the assessment and management of children and adolescents who are medically hospitalized with SSRDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Ibeziako
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts;
| | - Khyati Brahmbhatt
- Langley Porter Psychiatric Institute
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, and Benioff Children's Hospital, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Andrea Chapman
- Department of Psychiatry, British Columbia Children's Hospital and The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Claire De Souza
- Department of Psychiatry, The Hospital for Sick Children and University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Lisa Giles
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Primary Children's Hospital and School of Medicine, The University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Shanti Gooden
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, and Benioff Children's Hospital, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Finza Latif
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Children's National Medical Center and The George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Nasuh Malas
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, C.S. Mott Children's Hospital, University of Michigan Hospital Systems, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Lisa Namerow
- Department of Psychiatry, Connecticut Children's Medical Center and Institute of Living, School of Medicine, University of Connecticut, Hartford, Connecticut
| | - Ruth Russell
- Department of Psychiatry, Montreal Children's Hospital and McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Petra Steinbuchel
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, and Benioff Children's Hospital, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Maryland Pao
- Intramural Research Program, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; and
| | - Sigita Plioplys
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago and Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
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Malas N, Donohue L, Cook RJ, Leber SM, Kullgren KA. Pediatric Somatic Symptom and Related Disorders: Primary Care Provider Perspectives. Clin Pediatr (Phila) 2018; 57:377-388. [PMID: 28840747 DOI: 10.1177/0009922817727467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Somatization, or physical symptoms that are inconsistent with a physiological cause that may or may not involve an identified stressor, is common in outpatient pediatrics. When these symptoms persist, they can impair function and progress to a somatic symptom and related disorder (SSRD), resulting in increased health care use and increased demands on primary care providers (PCPs). We performed a needs assessment among PCPs to better understand how best to support providers caring for children with SSRDs. Pediatric PCPs (n = 77) were surveyed to better understand their training, experience, perceptions, and practices of SSRD care. Findings indicate that PCPs have limited training in SSRD care but express interest in learning more. Many barriers to effective care were reported. We hope to use these findings to develop training materials and support services for pediatric PCPs managing SSRDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasuh Malas
- 1 University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | - Robin J Cook
- 1 University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Steven M Leber
- 1 University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Cozzi G, Minute M, Skabar A, Pirrone A, Jaber M, Neri E, Montico M, Ventura A, Barbi E. Somatic symptom disorder was common in children and adolescents attending an emergency department complaining of pain. Acta Paediatr 2017; 106:586-593. [PMID: 28052403 DOI: 10.1111/apa.13741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2016] [Revised: 10/04/2016] [Accepted: 01/02/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
AIM The aim of this study was to quantify the prevalence of somatic pain in a paediatric emergency department (ED). METHODS We conducted a prospective observational study using patients admitted to the ED of an Italian children's hospital between December 2014 and February 2015. We enrolled children aged 7-17 who turned up at the ED complaining of pain. Patients and parents were asked to fill in a questionnaire to allow the analysis of the patients' medical history and provide contact details for follow-up. We divided the enrolled patients into four groups: post-traumatic pain, organic pain, functional pain and somatic pain. The questionnaire was used to define pain characteristics and to generate an impairment score. RESULTS Of the 713 patients who met inclusion criteria, 306 (42.9%) were enrolled in the study. Of these, 135 (44.0%) suffered from post-traumatic pain, 104 (34.0%) from organic pain, 41 (13.4%) from functional pain and 26 (8.6%) from somatic pain. Somatic pain patients had endured pain longer, had missed more school days and had suffered severe functional impairment. CONCLUSION This study highlighted that somatic pain was a significant contributor to paediatric emergency room visits and should be suspected and diagnosed in children reporting pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgio Cozzi
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS Burlo Garofolo; Trieste Italy
| | | | - Aldo Skabar
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS Burlo Garofolo; Trieste Italy
| | | | | | - Elena Neri
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS Burlo Garofolo; Trieste Italy
| | - Marcella Montico
- Clinical Epidemiology and Health Services Research Unit; Institute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS Burlo Garofolo; Trieste Italy
| | - Alessandro Ventura
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS Burlo Garofolo; Trieste Italy
- University of Trieste; Trieste Italy
| | - Egidio Barbi
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS Burlo Garofolo; Trieste Italy
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Abstract
Somatic symptom disorder (SSD) is a common disorder encountered in pediatric medicine. It involves the presentation of physical symptoms that are either disproportionate or inconsistent with history, physical examination, laboratory, and other investigative findings. SSDs result in significant impairment with considerable increase in healthcare utilization, school absenteeism, and the potential for unnecessary diagnostic evaluation and treatment intervention. Patients and families often feel dismissed and may worry that a serious condition has been missed. Primary care providers are frequently frustrated due to a lack of a successful approach to patients and families impacted by SSD. The result is often a cycle of disability, frustration and missed opportunities for collaboration towards enhanced patient functionality. This review summarizes the current evidence-based understanding, as well as insights from clinician experience, on the evaluation and management of pediatric SSD.
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Chun TH, Mace SE, Katz ER. Executive Summary: Evaluation and Management of Children With Acute Mental Health or Behavioral Problems. Part II: Recognition of Clinically Challenging Mental Health Related Conditions Presenting With Medical or Uncertain Symptoms. Pediatrics 2016; 138:peds.2016-1574. [PMID: 27550983 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2016-1574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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Chun TH, Mace SE, Katz ER. Evaluation and Management of Children With Acute Mental Health or Behavioral Problems. Part II: Recognition of Clinically Challenging Mental Health Related Conditions Presenting With Medical or Uncertain Symptoms. Pediatrics 2016; 138:peds.2016-1573. [PMID: 27550976 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2016-1573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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Tøt-Strate S, Dehlholm-Lambertsen G, Lassen K, Rask CU. Clinical features of functional somatic symptoms in children and referral patterns to child and adolescent mental health services. Acta Paediatr 2016; 105:514-21. [PMID: 26666703 DOI: 10.1111/apa.13310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2015] [Revised: 10/12/2015] [Accepted: 12/11/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AIM Functional somatic symptoms (FSS) are common in paediatric patients who are referred to Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS), but little is known about current referral practices. The aim of this study was to systematically investigate clinical features of paediatric inpatients with FSS referred to CAMHS and to describe why paediatricians referred them. METHODS The study population comprised 60 children with FSS admitted to a large Danish paediatric department during 2012. We compared medical record data on the clinical characteristics and paediatric management of 16 children who had been referred and 44 children who had not. RESULTS Most paediatric records lacked information on psychosocial factors and symptoms. Referred children were significantly more multisymptomatic of FSS (p < 0.01) than the controls, had longer symptom duration, underwent more clinical investigations, had longer paediatric admissions of at least two weeks and received more treatment elements before referral. The most frequently stated referral reason was inadequate treatment response. CONCLUSION Paediatric inpatients with more severe FSS were more likely to be referred to CAMHS, but referral reasons were generally vague and psychosocial information was frequently missing. Clinical guidelines are needed to improve and systematise mental health referrals for children with FSS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Tøt-Strate
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Odense; Odense University Hospital; Odense Region of Southern Denmark Denmark
| | - Gitte Dehlholm-Lambertsen
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Odense; Odense University Hospital; Odense Region of Southern Denmark Denmark
| | - Karin Lassen
- Department of Paediatrics; Odense University Hospital; Odense Region of Southern Denmark Denmark
| | - Charlotte Ulrikka Rask
- The Research Clinic for Functional Disorders and Psychosomatics; Aarhus University Hospital; Aarhus Denmark
- Regional Centre for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry; Risskov; Aarhus University Hospital; Aarhus Denmark
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Marquis C, Vabres N, Caldagues E, Bonnot O. [Clinic of somatoform disorders in abused adolescents]. Presse Med 2016; 45:e51-8. [PMID: 27016848 DOI: 10.1016/j.lpm.2015.10.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2013] [Accepted: 10/20/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Child abuse represents a contributing factor to develop various psychopathological disorders, such as somatoform disorders. OBJECTIVES Improving the detection of child abuse, based on the analysis of somatoform disorders and the comparison between non-abused and abused patients, in a population of hospitalized teens in a general pediatric ward. METHODS A retrospective study at the University Hospital of Nantes, involving every adolescents from 11 to 16 y.o. hospitalized in pediatric ward and cured by the child psychiatrist medical team, whatever the reason, over the year 2012 (n=231). RESULTS Thirty-three percent of hospitalized adolescents had history of abuse. Physical abuses were dominant (54% vs. 24% sexual vs. 22% psychological). Our study highlight a statistically significant difference on the frequency of somatoform disorders between abused adolescents and not abused witness population (70% vs. 40%; P=0.0001). Gastrointestinal complaints (25% vs. 14.2%; P=0.0434) and musculoskeletal pains (13.2% vs. 4.5%; P=0.0291) appeared more significantly in abused adolescents population rather than non-abused adolescents. Somatoform disorders were not related to the frequency or type of abuse, except for gastrointestinal complaints, being more frequent in patients who were psychologically abused (51.7% vs. 26.7% sexual vs. 11.8% physical; P=0.005). CONCLUSION Somatoform disorders are an interesting way to spot adolescents suffering from abuse, justifying a systematic investigation for child abuse. It remains, however, a warning not directing to any specific type of abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Capucine Marquis
- CHU de Nantes, service de psychiatrie de l'enfant et de l'adolescent, 7, quai Moncousu, 44093 Nantes cedex 1, France.
| | - Nathalie Vabres
- CHU de Nantes, unité d'accueil des enfants en danger, service de pédiatrie, 7, quai Moncousu, 44093 Nantes cedex 1, France
| | - Emmanuelle Caldagues
- CHU de Nantes, service de pédiatrie, 7, quai Moncousu, 44093 Nantes cedex 1, France
| | - Olivier Bonnot
- CHU de Nantes, service de psychiatrie de l'enfant et de l'adolescent, 7, quai Moncousu, 44093 Nantes cedex 1, France
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Hinton D, Kirk S. Families' and healthcare professionals' perceptions of healthcare services for children and young people with medically unexplained symptoms: a narrative review of the literature. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2016; 24:12-26. [PMID: 25684117 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.12184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/29/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Children and young people frequently report physical complaints that have no observable physical pathology known as medically unexplained symptoms (MUS). Research suggests that MUS are associated with substantial physical and psychological impairments and may have a negative impact on children's and young people's functional status and well-being in the long term. Due to the potentially complex needs of this group, children and young people with MUS may require timely access to suitable health and social care services to effectively manage symptoms and achieve their academic, social and personal potential. Families and professionals can offer important insights into the availability and appropriateness of current community and specialist health and social care services. This review is the first critical evaluation and synthesis of research that has examined families' and healthcare professionals' (HCP) perceptions of healthcare services for children and young people with MUS. A systematic search of electronic databases and manual searches of key journals and reference lists identified 17 papers from 15 studies for inclusion in the review. The review highlights the paucity of rigorously conducted research on this topic. Studies have been narrowly focused on the views of a homogeneous group of mothers and young people attending single centres. There has been some attempt to examine doctors' views, but the perceptions of children, fathers and health and social care professionals are absent or under-represented, and multi-site and longitudinal studies are lacking. Thematic analysis of the results from the included studies suggests that knowledge, communication, health beliefs and healthcare settings are factors that influence families' and HCPs' perceptions of services. Families report dissatisfaction with some HCPs' approach to managing MUS. The findings suggest that children and young people with MUS are at risk of receiving suboptimal care and support because there is insufficient research to inform high-quality, evidence-based practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denise Hinton
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Susan Kirk
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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Basch MC, Chow ET, Logan DE, Schechter NL, Simons LE. Perspectives on the clinical significance of functional pain syndromes in children. J Pain Res 2015; 8:675-86. [PMID: 26504406 PMCID: PMC4605245 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s55586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Functional pain syndromes (FPS) characterize a subset of individuals who experience pain and related symptoms and disability without clear structural or disease etiology. In the pediatric population, FPS hold high clinical importance due to significant prevalence rates and potential to persist into adulthood. Although extensive research has been executed to disambiguate FPS, the syndromes that fall within its spectrum remain conceptually complex and sometimes ill-defined. This paper provides an overview of available research on the classification and multifaceted etiology of FPS in youth and their effects on interpersonal, psychological, and familial function. Vital aspects of a successful multidisciplinary approach to treating this population are described; however, it is evident that future research requires more longitudinal studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molly C Basch
- Division of Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
- Boston Children’s Hospital, Center for Pain and the Brain, PAIN Research Group, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Erika T Chow
- Division of Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Deirdre E Logan
- Division of Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Neil L Schechter
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Laura E Simons
- Division of Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
- Boston Children’s Hospital, Center for Pain and the Brain, PAIN Research Group, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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17
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Bujoreanu S, Randall E, Thomson K, Ibeziako P. Characteristics of medically hospitalized pediatric patients with somatoform diagnoses. Hosp Pediatr 2014; 4:283-290. [PMID: 25318110 DOI: 10.1542/hpeds.2014-0023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To describe demographic, diagnostic, and psychosocial characteristics of medically admitted patients diagnosed with somatoform disorders. METHODS Retrospective chart reviews were performed for pediatric patients (ages 3-18 years) seen by the Psychiatry Consultation Service in 2010 and 2011 on inpatient medical/surgical units and diagnosed with somatoform disorders. Data included demographic information; patient medical history, physical symptom characteristics, and service utilization; psychiatric diagnoses, history, and comorbidities, patient temperament, and coping style; family characteristics; and academic and social characteristics. RESULTS Mean age for the 161 identified patients was 14.4 years. The majority of patients were female (75%) and white (73%). Chief physical symptoms were pain (58%) and neurologic symptoms (40%); 73% of patients had medical diagnoses, and 66% had a history of prior psychiatric treatment. The most common somatoform diagnoses, using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision, were pain (50%) and conversion disorders (28%). Psychiatric comorbidities were predominantly mood and anxiety disorders (42% and 29%, respectively). Mean hospitalization length was 4.9 days, with 14% of patients readmitted with psychiatric reinvolvement during the study period. Patients had sensitive temperaments (80%) and internalizing coping styles (76%) and were described as "good children" (72%). School absences (55%), academic pressures (51%), and learning difficulties (36%) were reported. CONCLUSIONS Clarifying the prevalence and nature of such characteristics can help pediatric providers improve patient care and minimize unnecessary medical interventions with early detection of risk for somatoform processes, provision of psychoeducation for patients and families, and early referral to mental health clinicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Bujoreanu
- Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Edin Randall
- Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
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de Gusmão CM, Guerriero RM, Bernson-Leung ME, Pier D, Ibeziako PI, Bujoreanu S, Maski KP, Urion DK, Waugh JL. Functional neurological symptom disorders in a pediatric emergency room: diagnostic accuracy, features, and outcome. Pediatr Neurol 2014; 51:233-8. [PMID: 25079572 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2014.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2014] [Revised: 04/05/2014] [Accepted: 04/09/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In children, functional neurological symptom disorders are frequently the basis for presentation for emergency care. Pediatric epidemiological and outcome data remain scarce. OBJECTIVE Assess diagnostic accuracy of trainee's first impression in our pediatric emergency room; describe manner of presentation, demographic data, socioeconomic impact, and clinical outcomes, including parental satisfaction. METHODS (1) More than 1 year, psychiatry consultations for neurology patients with a functional neurological symptom disorder were retrospectively reviewed. (2) For 3 months, all children whose emergency room presentation suggested the diagnosis were prospectively collected. (3) Three to six months after prospective collection, families completed a structured telephone interview on outcome measures. RESULTS Twenty-seven patients were retrospectively assessed; 31 patients were prospectively collected. Trainees' accurately predicted the diagnosis in 93% (retrospective) and 94% (prospective) cohorts. Mixed presentations were most common (usually sensory-motor changes, e.g. weakness and/or paresthesias). Associated stressors were mundane and ubiquitous, rarely severe. Families were substantially affected, reporting mean symptom duration 7.4 (standard error of the mean ± 1.33) weeks, missing 22.4 (standard error of the mean ± 5.47) days of school, and 8.3 (standard error of the mean ± 2.88) of parental workdays (prospective cohort). At follow-up, 78% were symptom free. Parental dissatisfaction was rare, attributed to poor rapport and/or insufficient information conveyed. CONCLUSIONS Trainees' clinical impression was accurate in predicting a later diagnosis of functional neurological symptom disorder. Extraordinary life stressors are not required to trigger the disorder in children. Although prognosis is favorable, families incur substantial economic burden and negative educational impact. Improving recognition and appropriately communicating the diagnosis may speed access to treatment and potentially reduce the disability and cost of this disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio M de Gusmão
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Neurology, Pediatric Movement Disorders Clinic, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston Massachusetts.
| | - Réjean M Guerriero
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Danielle Pier
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Simona Bujoreanu
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Kiran P Maski
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - David K Urion
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jeff L Waugh
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Neurology, Pediatric Movement Disorders Clinic, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston Massachusetts
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Okita K, Kobori O, Sasaki T, Nakazato M, Shimizu E, Iyo M. Cognitive behavioural therapy for somatoform pain disorder in adolescents: a case study. ASIA PACIFIC JOURNAL OF COUNSELLING AND PSYCHOTHERAPY 2013. [DOI: 10.1080/21507686.2013.779929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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