Name of the Condition

• Dissociative and Conversion Disorder, Unspecified (ICD-10 Code: F44.9)
• Sometimes referred to as "psychogenic disorder" or "functional neurological disorder" in varied contexts.

Summary

Dissociative and conversion disorder, unspecified, encompasses a group of mental health conditions where a person experiences a disconnection from their thoughts, memories, and identity, possibly manifesting as motor or sensory dysfunctions without a neurological cause. These disorders can disrupt a person's day-to-day life but are often not attributable to a physical ailment.

Causes

• Psychological trauma or stress.
• An underlying mechanism where psychological distress is converted into physical symptoms.
• Often occur in response to a traumatic event or situation.

Risk Factors

• History of trauma or abuse.
• High levels of stress in personal or professional life.
• Pre-existing mental health disorders, such as anxiety or depression.
• Family history of similar disorders or mental health conditions.

Symptoms

• Partial or total loss of memory (amnesia).
• Unexplained motor or sensory symptoms, such as paralysis, tremors, or non-epileptic seizures.
• A sense of detachment from self or surroundings.

Diagnosis

• Comprehensive psychological evaluation.
• Exclusion of neurological disorders through tests such as MRI or CT scans.
• Discussion of symptoms and medical history with a healthcare professional.

Treatment Options

• Psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), to address underlying psychological issues.
• Stress management and coping strategies.
• Physical therapy might be recommended to regain certain motor functions.
• In some cases, medication may be prescribed for symptoms of anxiety or depression.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Prognosis varies depending on individual circumstances and the severity of the disorder.
• Regular follow-up is crucial to monitor symptoms and adjust treatment plans.
• Some people see significant improvement with treatment, while others might experience persistent symptoms.

Complications

• Persistent disability if symptoms remain unmanaged.
• Impact on personal, social, and occupational functioning.
• Possible development of other mental health conditions.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Engage in regular physical activity and stress-reducing practices such as yoga or meditation.
• Seek support when experiencing high-stress situations.
• Establish a robust support network to manage and share stress and anxiety.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Experiencing unexplained physical symptoms that interfere with daily life.
• Symptoms of memory loss or altered awareness.
• Severe emotional distress or thoughts of self-harm.

Additional Resources

• American Psychiatric Association APA
• National Alliance on Mental Illness NAMI
• International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation ISSTD

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure accurate documentation of the symptoms and any related psychological history.
• Differentiate between dissociative and conversion disorders when coding, as both have distinct characteristics and codes.
• Avoid common errors by verifying that physical causes for symptoms have been ruled out through adequate documentation.