Functional somatic syndromes: one or many?

Lancet. 1999 Sep 11;354(9182):936-9. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(98)08320-2.

Abstract

We review the concept and importance of functional somatic symptoms and syndromes such as irritable bowel syndrome and chronic fatigue syndrome. On the basis of a literature review, we conclude that a substantial overlap exists between the individual syndromes and that the similarities between them outweigh the differences. Similarities are apparent in case definition, reported symptoms, and in non-symptom association such as patients' sex, outlook, and response to treatment. We conclude that the existing definitions of these syndromes in terms of specific symptoms is of limited value; instead we believe a dimensional classification is likely to be more productive.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Colonic Diseases, Functional / diagnosis*
  • Colonic Diseases, Functional / psychology
  • Colonic Diseases, Functional / therapy
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic / diagnosis*
  • Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic / psychology
  • Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic / therapy
  • Humans
  • Patient Care Team
  • Prognosis
  • Sick Role
  • Somatoform Disorders / diagnosis*
  • Somatoform Disorders / psychology
  • Somatoform Disorders / therapy