Distinguishing between hypochondriasis and somatization disorder: a review of the existing literature.

Department of Psychiatry, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA. russell-noyes@uiowa.edu

A valid classification is important for further understanding of the somatoform disorders. The main disorders in this grouping - somatization disorder and hypochondriasis - have lengthy historical traditions and are defined in a contrasting manner. Various authors point to distinguishing demographic and clinical features, but there have been few direct comparisons of patients with these disorders. A review of the literature indicates those domains where differences are most likely to be found. Research assessing these may serve to refine and validate these key somatoform categories and/or dimensions.

PMID: 16899963 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]