Conversion disorders

Conversion disorders, earlier known as hysteria, are quite common in some countries and rather infrequent in others. Conversion disorders lie at the interface of neurology and psychiatry, with as yet unclear pathophysiology, which means these disorders are characterized by medically unexplained symptoms. Many alternative terms have been suggested to replace hysteria and conversion disorder, but none seems satisfactory at present. This chapter examines the possible reasons that make diagnosing conversion disorders a charming challenge. The nosological limitations and common differential diagnosis have also been highlighted. Though the prevalence of conversion disorders seem to be reducing, it is unlikely that these disorders will just disappear. With careful evaluation of possible role of psychological and emotional factors in the presentation of conversion disorders, it should be possible to diagnose these reliably and managed appropriately.