Understanding and Managing Adolescents with Conversion and Functional Disorders, 2020, Sunde et al

[Andy]

A functional disorder is a constellation of bothersome physical symptoms that compromise regular function but for which there is no identifiable organic or psychiatric pathology. Functional disorders can present with various symptoms. Common forms of functional disorders include functional neurologic symptom disorder (also referred to as “conversion disorder”), functional gastrointestinal disorders, chronic pain syndromes, and chronic fatigue. One-third to one-half of outpatient consultations in many practices are due to functional disorders. Functional disorders must be distinguished from structural and psychiatric disorders but should not be considered diagnoses of exclusion. Recovery is facilitated by good relationships between patients and practitioners, with good explanations of the pathophysiology of functional disorders and effective encouragement and education of patients.

Paywall, https://pedsinreview.aappublications.org/content/41/12/630
Sci hub, no access.

 

[Arnie Pye]

chronic pain syndromes

I've always wanted to know if chronic pain caused by known physical damage that will never heal (scarring and adhesions) is considered to be a functional condition or not. Can anyone tell me?

 

[Hoopoe]

with good explanations of the pathophysiology of functional disorders

It's by definition illness without any measurable abnormalities, but we're told the pathophysiology is known. That makes no sense.

 

[Sean]

with good explanations of the pathophysiology of functional disorders and effective encouragement and education of patients.

How does that work for bogus explanations? What is the proof that it works, beyond modest shifting of scores for some patients on self-report measures?

 

[alktipping]

this is the curse of so called neuropsychology too many ego's who cannot say we do not know so they make up harmful bullshit that always blames the patient for the professions lack of knowledge . why is their no body in medicine to lobby for real research and development of better technologies to actually improve our present lack of understanding in all fields of medicine . the medical business model has always been parasitical so their is no surprise that many take advantage for their own personal gains damning patients in the process .