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.
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