Hypochondriasis: treatment options for a diagnostic quagmire

Abstract

Objective: This article presents the conceptual and diagnostic conundrums surrounding hypochondriasis and reviews current treatment options for this disorder. Conclusions: The removal of hypochondriasis from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition and its replacement with two new diagnostic entities have been controversial. It appears that the Eleventh Revision of the International Classification of Diseases will take a more cautious approach and emphasise the links between hypochondriasis, obsessive-compulsive disorder and other anxiety disorders. The cornerstone of any treatment approach to hypochondriasis is establishing a good therapeutic relationship with the patient. Psychological treatments, especially cognitive-behavioural therapy, have been more useful than pharmacotherapy, but there is much room for improving treatment outcomes.