somatic symptom disorder

Etiology

• psychologic factors presumed to play a role in onset & persistence of physical symptoms*

* it seems as if this fits a description of psychosomatic disorder

Epidemiology

• among the most common somatoform disorders in late life

Clinical manifestations

• >= 1 physical complaint lasting 6 months
• associated with significant distress or impairment in function
• symptoms & impairment not explained by or exceed expectations based on medical findings
• symptoms may relieve patient of expectations that she will fulfill responsibilities
• patient does not ruminate about these concerns
• enjoys socializing with friends
• no changes in appetite or energy level

More general terms

• somatoform disorder