An investigation of temperamental traits in patients with somatoform disorder: do they belong in the affective spectrum?

BACKGROUND

About 10% of the general population report multiple and persisting physical symptoms resulting in extensive screening but with no organic explanation found.

OBJECTIVE

The authors sought to determine whether these somatoform-disorder patients show characteristics of the affective disorder spectrum, with the cyclothymic temperament likely showing the highest specificity for somatoform disorder.

METHOD: This study examined temperamental traits and current mood states of 44 general-hospital inpatients diagnosed with somatoform disorder.

RESULTS

There was a higher prevalence of abnormal temperamental traits in patients with somatoform disorder.

CONCLUSION

Based on the idea of a continuum between temperament and affective disorders, the results should trigger further research on this issue possibly leading to novel treatment options in the future.