Munchausen

Munchausen syndrome is a psychiatric factitious disorder where those affected feign disease, illness, or psychological trauma to draw attention, sympathy, or reassurance to themselves. It is also sometimes known as hospital addiction syndrome, thick chart syndrome, or hospital hopper syndrome. Munchausen syndrome fits within the subclass of factitious disorder with predominantly physical signs and symptoms, but they also have a history of recurrent hospitalization, travelling, and dramatic, extremely improbable tales of their past experiences. The condition is named after Baron Munchausen, a German nobleman in the 18th century who became famous for telling outrageous, fantastical stories about his military exploits and personal adventures.

Signs and symptoms

Munchausen syndrome is related to Munchausen syndrome by proxy (MSbP/MSP), which refers to the abuse of another person, typically a child, in order to seek attention or sympathy for the abuser. Individuals with the syndrome use their role as a patient as a means of gaining attention, sympathy, or reassurance through feigned or exaggerated illness. The role of "patient" is a familiar and comforting one, and it fills a psychological need in people with Munchausen's. This disorder is distinct from hypochondriasis and other somatoform disorders in that those with the latter do not intentionally produce their somatic symptoms.

Causes

The exact cause of Munchausen syndrome is not known, but a history of abuse or neglect as a child, or a history of frequent illnesses requiring hospitalization might be factors. In some cases, it might be linked to personality disorders, which could be caused by a variety of factors, including genetic and environmental influences.

Treatment

Treatment for Munchausen syndrome is difficult, and there are no standard treatments. Therapy is aimed at managing the condition, rather than curing it. Treatment usually includes psychotherapy and behavior counseling. If possible, family therapy may also be suggested.

See also

• Factitious disorder
• Malingering
• Munchausen by Internet
• Munchausen syndrome by proxy