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Somatoform disorders – Key questions (1.5 CPD hours)

 

In this updated article, psychiatrist Dr Christopher Bass tackles questions from GP Dr Mandy Fry on diagnosis, CBT, medication and strategies for primary care management.

Learning objectives

This module will update your knowledge on effective management of somatoform disorders, covering topics such as:

  • The use of CBT in patients with somatoform disorders
  • Prescribing SSRIs and tricyclic drugs such as amitriptyline and imipramine
  • The use of scales such as Patient Health Questionnaire 15-item somatic symptom scale (PHQ-15), the Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire and HADS in primary care
  • Balancing investigations for underlying disease, while avoiding medicalising the patient
  • Managing conversion disorders
  • Screening for symptoms of anxiety and depression
  • Cultural variations in the presentation of somatoform disorders

Article only | Full CPD module