An investigation of temperamental traits in patients with somatoform disorder: do they belong in the affective spectrum?

BACKGROUND About 10% of the general population report multiple and persisting physical symptoms resulting in extensive screening but with no organic explanation found. OBJECTIVE The authors sought to determine whether these somatoform-disorder patients show characteristics of the affective disorder spectrum, with the cyclothymic temperament likely showing the highest specificity for somatoform disorder. METHOD This study examined temperamental traits and current mood states of 44 general-hospital inpatients diagnosed with somatoform disorder. RESULTS There was a higher prevalence of abnormal temperamental traits in patients with somatoform disorder. CONCLUSION Based on the idea of a continuum between temperament and affective disorders, the results should trigger further research on this issue possibly leading to novel treatment options in the future.