Conversion disorder in childhood presenting as movement disorder with severe injuries

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Rajagopalan, Janaki | Rangaswamy, Pradeep M.

Affiliations: Department of Psychiatry, Sri Ramachandra University, Chennai, India

Note: [] Correspondence: Dr. Pradeep M. Rangaswamy, Postgraduate in Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Sri Ramachandra University, Porur, Chennai, Tamilnadu, Pin 600116, India. Tel.: +91 9894174456: Fax: +91 4427242448: E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract: Conversion disorder is characterized by the presence of one or more medically unexplained neurological symptoms and signs, which can manifest in all ages including children. In such cases, a stressor or conflict either initiates or exacerbates the condition. We present here a unique case of psychogenic movement disorder which was associated with injuries and when underlying stressors were identified, symptoms resolved with psychological treatment alone.

Keywords: Conversion disorder, tic disorder, psychogenic, movement disorder

DOI: 10.3233/JPN-120575

Journal: Journal of Pediatric Neurology, vol. 10, no. 4, pp. 293-295, 2012