Note: [] Korrespondenzadresse: Prof. Dr. Urs M. Nater,
Lichtenberg-Professor für Klinische Biopsychologie, Fachbereich
Psychologie, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Gutenbergstraße 18,
Marburg. Email: nater@uni-marburg.de
Abstract: This article reviews current research on the conceptualization,
epidemiology, and treatment of functional somatic syndromes (FSS). FSS are
defined by clusters of medically unexplained symptoms. A variety of diagnostic
criteria for a number of FSS exist. Individuals affected by one FSS often
fulfill criteria for at least one additional FSS. Also, psychiatric comorbidity
with depressive, anxiety, and/or personality disorders is frequently present.
The course of these syndromes is often chronic. Use of antidepressants and
psychotherapy has been shown to be effective in the management of FSS. Future
research on FSS should adopt standardized operationalization of diagnostic
criteria as well as report diagnostic procedures. Studies investigating
specific risk factors and differential pathophysiological mechanisms in FSS are
critical.
