Factitious Disorders

Disorders that are characterized by physical or psychological symptoms that are intentionally produced in order to feign illness and assume the role of a patient. Physical symptoms most commonly produced include infections, impaired wound healing, abdominal complaints, hypoglycemia, anemia, bleeding, rashes, seizures, dizziness, vomiting, diarrhea, fevers and symptoms associated with autoimmune, connective tissue diseases or problems associated with any of the organ systems. The presentation may include fabrication complaints, falsification of objective signs (e.g., manipulating a thermometer to substantiate a fever), self-inflicted conditions (e.g., taking anticoagulants to stimulate bleeding) and exaggeration of preexisting medical conditions. Psychological symptoms suggest the presence of a mental disorder, typically depression, memory loss, hallucinations, delusions and dissociative symptoms.