Functional Neurologic Symptom Disorder

Functional neurological symptom disorder (previously known as conversion disorder) is characterized by the sudden onset of altered sensory or motor function with clinical findings that are incompatible with a recognized neurological disease.  Symptoms are unconsciously produced (ie, they are not feigned or intentionally created), and their acuity and severity may or may not cause the patient distress.  Onset can be precipitated by psychological or physical stress, and symptoms cause significant distress and functional impairment.

The estimated prevalence of functional neurological symptom disorder in the general population is 0.05%.  The prevalence rate in neurologic settings is higher, approximately 5%-10%.  This condition is more likely to occur in females than males, and onset is typically in early to middle adulthood (ages 20-40).