Reducing posttraumatic stress in parents of patients with a rare inherited metabolic disorder using eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy: a case study

Abstract Parents of children with severe inborn errors metabolism frequently face stressful events related to the disease their child and are consequently at high risk for developing parental posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Assessment subsequent treatment PTSD in these parents is however not common clinical practice. can be effectively treated by Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), no studies have been conducted yet regarding effect EMDR PTSD. generally offered multiple weekly sessions which may preclude participation as they overburdened ongoing often intensive care child. Therefore, we time-limited a maximum four over two days mucopolysaccharidosis type III (MPS III) patients explore its potential effects. Both qualitative quantitative outcomes were used evaluate felt more resilient competent future difficulties child, adverse effects reported. Quantitative showed clinically significant decrease post traumatic symptoms comorbid psychological distress from pre- treatment, beneficial maintained follow-up. In conclusion, highly relevant traumatized MPS III, probably also other rare progressive disorders. Further research needed validate efficacy this specific population.