I. Introduction

In this introductory section, we provide a brief overview of conversion disorder, its historical context, and highlight the prevalence and impact of the disorder in society. The term “conversion disorder” was first mentioned in literature by Sigmund Freud (1856-1939).


II. Defining Conversion Disorder

Here, we delve into the definition of conversion disorder, explore different terms and synonyms associated with the condition, and explain how it can be differentiated from other medical conditions.


III. Symptoms and Clinical Presentation

This section focuses on the primary symptoms of conversion disorder, the role of psychological and emotional factors in its manifestation, variations in symptoms among individuals, and an explanation of the diagnostic criteria.


IV. Neurobiological Underpinnings

We explore the neurobiological aspects of conversion disorder, including the connection between the disorder and the brain, the influence of stress and trauma, findings from neuroimaging studies, and the current theories and hypotheses surrounding the condition.


V. Psychodynamic Perspective

In this section, we introduce psychodynamic theories related to conversion disorder, discuss the concept of unconscious conflicts and how they contribute to conversion symptoms, explore the role of defense mechanisms, and highlight the contributions of key figures like Freud.


VI. Sociocultural Factors

Here, we examine the impact of sociocultural factors on conversion disorder, including cultural influences, gender differences in prevalence and expression, the role of social and environmental factors, and the stigma associated with the disorder.


VII. Assessment and Diagnosis

This section focuses on the process of diagnosing conversion disorder, the considerations involved in differential diagnosis, the importance of thorough assessment, and the various diagnostic tools and techniques used.


VIII. Prevalence of Conversion Disorder (Studies Before 2020)

We delve into the prevalence of conversion disorder by reviewing studies conducted before 2020, discussing prevalence rates in different populations, examining the methodologies used in these studies, and exploring factors that influence reported prevalence.

The incidence of conversion disorder depends largely on the populations studied. Akagi and House found that the average incidence of conversion disorder across varying geographic settings was approximately 4 to 12 per 100000 per year.[2] Population-based case registries would place the rate of conversion disorder higher, at 50 per 100000 per year. The Scottish Neurologic Symptoms Study was a cohort study looking at 3781 individuals in an outpatient neurology setting; of these individuals, an estimated 5.6% had conversion disorder. Another analysis that was conducted by Perkin included 7836 individuals seen in the outpatient neurology setting. This research was a retrospective study, and it concluded that approximately 4% of patients had symptoms consistent with conversion disorder. However, this study took place in 1989.[5]


Research has revealed that adult women diagnosed with conversion disorder outnumber adult men in a ratio range from 2 to 1 to 10 to 1. Patients of lower socioeconomic class and with less education have higher incidences of conversion disorder. Race does not appear to be a factor. Studies have shown that conversion disorder in children is rare under age 5 and occurs most commonly during puberty and adolescence.[6] The incidence of conversion disorder in children is also largely population-based; one study conducted in Germany found the rate of conversion disorder in the pediatric population was 0.2%. In another study conducted in Australia, the rate of conversion disorder in the pediatric population was 2.3 to 4.2 per 100000 per year. Over ten years of age, girls demonstrated a three times more likely chance to develop conversion disorder than boys.[7]

IX. Treatment Approaches

Here, we explore the goals of treatment for conversion disorder, discuss psychotherapeutic interventions such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and supportive therapy, highlight medication options and their effectiveness, and touch upon complementary and alternative therapies.


X. Case Studies

This section presents real-life case studies to illustrate conversion disorder, providing in-depth analysis of specific presentations, treatment outcomes, and the lessons learned from these cases.


XI. Prognosis and Long-term Outlook

We discuss the factors influencing the prognosis of conversion disorder, explore the long-term effects of the condition, and provide strategies for managing and coping with symptoms in the long run.


XII. Support and Resources

In this section, we provide information about support groups and organizations that offer assistance to individuals with conversion disorder, mention online communities and forums for connecting with others, suggest self-help resources and strategies, and provide guidance on accessing professional help.


XIII. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

We address frequently asked questions about conversion disorder, covering topics such as its causes, prevention, curability, duration, occurrence in children, differentiation from malingering, risk factors, comorbidity with other medical conditions, support for individuals with conversion disorder, and what to do if one suspects they have the disorder.


XIV. Conclusion

The concluding section summarizes the key points discussed throughout the article, emphasizes the importance of raising awareness and understanding about conversion disorder, and encourages further research and destigmatization of the condition.