Hysterical emergencies

Most probably common in emergency departments, but still not well studied in this context, the disorders formerly called "hysteria" are now included in the group "Somatization, undifferentiated somatoform, conversion and dissociative disorders" (SSCD disorders) DSM IV. Their common presentation is that of idiopathic somatic symptoms linked with mental disorders. In the emergency department these symptoms confront physicians who generally do not have extensive psychiatric training. The symptoms occur, and disappear, undetermined by the patients, who are genuinely ill and not malingering. Aside from the somatisation disorder, which by definition is chronic, invalidating and rare, the other disorders (SCD) can: be contingent on the picture of another acute, easily recognisable mental disorder; or, on the other hand, be highly reactional and transient; or constitute the "somatic presentation" of an anxious disorder, the panic attack, well known in somatic emergencies. Management is based on diagnostic considerations and by the difficulties of the patient to accept a psychic cause of the symptoms whereas he is experiencing an organic disorder. The possibilities of discussing such psychogenesis in the context of the emergency department are slight, and the best course is often to adopt a pragmatic and prudent medical approach. An essential point is respect of the patient and his ideas. The legal provision, which already exists, for the presence of psychiatrists in emergency departments should lead to physician-psychiatrist cooperation that would be beneficial for these patients.