CONVERSION
DISORDER
By Prajna
DEFINITION
Conversion Disorder is a psychological condition in which emotional or
psychological distress is expressed through neurological symptoms like
paralysis, blindness, or seizures that lack a medical explanation. The
symptoms are real to the person but are not due to any structural damage
or physiological malfunction.
SYMPTOMS
Symptoms often include motor issues (e.g., weakness, tremors,
paralysis), sensory disturbances (e.g., numbness, blindness,
deafness), or non-epileptic seizures.
These symptoms typically arise suddenly and are inconsistent
with known neurological or medical conditions.
CRITERIA FOR FUNCTIONAL
NEUROLOGICAL SYMPTOM
DISORDER
Diagnostic Criteria (DSM-5)
A. One or more symptoms of altered voluntary motor or sensory function.
B. Clinical findings provide evidence of incompatibility between the symptom(s)
and recognized neurological or medical conditions.
C. The symptom(s) are not better explained by another medical or mental
disorder, including malingering or factitious disorder.
D. The symptom(s) cause significant distress or impairment in social,
occupational, or other important areas of functioning, or require medical
evaluation.
Specifiers in DSM-5:
With or without psychological stressor
Acute (less than 6 months)
Persistent (6 months or more)
ICD-10 Code and Criteria
F44.4 - Conversion Disorder (Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder)
The ICD-10 defines Conversion Disorder as the presence of neurological symptoms that
suggest a neurological or medical condition but cannot be explained by such conditions
after appropriate investigations.
1.Symptoms: Symptoms may include paralysis, abnormal gait, blindness, mutism, or
seizures that are inconsistent with medical explanations.
2.Psychosocial Stressors: Psychological stressors often precede the onset of symptoms.
3.Exclusion Criteria: Symptoms must not be better explained by any other medical or
mental disorder, and they must not be intentionally produced.
4.Treatment: The ICD-10 emphasizes the importance of a multidisciplinary approach,
including psychotherapy (e.g., psychodynamic therapy, CBT) and physical rehabilitation.
ETIOLOGY
Psychological stress, trauma, or internal conflicts are often
linked to the onset of symptoms. The disorder may serve as a
subconscious way to avoid stressors or gain attention and care
(secondary gain).
PREVALENCE
Conversion Disorder is more common in women than men and often
begins in adolescence or early adulthood. Prevalence estimates range
from 2 to 5 per 100,000 people annually, but rates may be higher in low-
income, low-education, and rural populations.
TREATMENT
The most effective treatments include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT),
psychoeducation, and physical/occupational therapy for regaining function.
Addressing underlying psychological factors such as trauma or stress through
psychotherapy is key, and medications may help if comorbid anxiety or
depression is present.
CONCLUSION
Conversion Disorder, now recognized as Functional Neurological Symptom
Disorder, is a complex condition where psychological distress is transformed
into neurological symptoms without an identifiable medical cause.
Though historically misunderstood as "hysteria," modern psychiatry
acknowledges its roots in trauma, stress, and unconscious conflict, with
treatment focusing on psychological intervention, multidisciplinary care, and
destigmatization.
THANK YOU
