The recognition of hypochondriasis in general practice

Abstract

In hypochondriasis the patient is preoccupied with the idea that he is suffering from some serious organic disease, and complains of diverse somatic symptoms for which, On physical examination, no organic basis can be found. Hypochondriasis may mask various psychiatric syndromes such as schizophrenia, obsessive compulsive states or depression; sometimes it accompanies some physical disability, such as deafness, or follows a general infection, such as influenza. In the great majority of cases, however, it occurs alone, uncomplicated by the presence of physical illness or mental disorder.