Which disorder features long-lasting focus on multiple physical symptoms without an identifiable medical condition?

Which disorder features long-lasting focus on multiple physical symptoms without an identifiable medical condition?

• A. Somatization disorder
• B. Pain disorder
• C. Hypochondriasis
• D. Body dysmorphic disorder

Answer: (A)

The disorder characterized by a long-lasting focus on multiple physical symptoms that cannot be traced to any identifiable medical condition is somatization disorder. Individuals with this disorder experience a variety of physical complaints such as pain, fatigue, or gastrointestinal issues, which are not explained by medical evaluations. This can lead to significant distress and impairment in daily functioning. The central aspect of somatization disorder is the persistent experience of bodily symptoms, even in the absence of a clear medical diagnosis, often resulting from psychological factors rather than physical ailments. In contrast, pain disorder primarily revolves around chronic pain that is the predominant symptom, which may be influenced by psychological factors but is not exclusively defined by the presence of multiple symptoms. Hypochondriasis involves an excessive preoccupation with having a serious illness, often based on misinterpretation of bodily sensations, but does not necessarily focus on multiple physical symptoms. Body dysmorphic disorder is characterized by an excessive focus on perceived flaws or defects in physical appearance rather than a variety of physical symptoms. Thus, somatization disorder stands out as the most appropriate choice for the description provided.

The disorder characterized by a long-lasting focus on multiple physical symptoms that cannot be traced to any identifiable medical condition is somatization disorder. Individuals with this disorder experience a variety of physical complaints such as pain, fatigue, or gastrointestinal issues, which are not explained by medical evaluations. This can lead to significant distress and impairment in daily functioning. The central aspect of somatization disorder is the persistent experience of bodily symptoms, even in the absence of a clear medical diagnosis, often resulting from psychological factors rather than physical ailments.

In contrast, pain disorder primarily revolves around chronic pain that is the predominant symptom, which may be influenced by psychological factors but is not exclusively defined by the presence of multiple symptoms. Hypochondriasis involves an excessive preoccupation with having a serious illness, often based on misinterpretation of bodily sensations, but does not necessarily focus on multiple physical symptoms. Body dysmorphic disorder is characterized by an excessive focus on perceived flaws or defects in physical appearance rather than a variety of physical symptoms. Thus, somatization disorder stands out as the most appropriate choice for the description provided.