When Pain is Beyond Biology - A Case of Fake Leprosy

Lazslo Antonio Avila, Eurides Maria de Oliveira Pozetti, Gislaine Fusco Fares, Rosa Maria Cordeiro Soubhia, Marilia Capuco Oliveira, Andreia Yumi Tomiyasu
2017 The Open Pain Journal  
Pain is a complex phenomenon that implies pathophysiological processes and psychosocial components. A 56-year-old female patient complaining of pain and presenting with multiple mild physical signs was examined by a multidisciplinary team from the Ear-Nose-Throat, Dermatology, Hematology, General Clinics, and Psychiatry and Psychology Departments. Objective: To present a significant case where pain is primarily caused by psychological conflicts. Method: A multidisciplinary approach, with
more » ... and psychological interventions. Results: The patient was deeply convinced; she had been contaminated by leprosy. Her enrooted personal beliefs, including religion and moral conflicts, seem to be the primary cause for her putative 'disease', a condition that was not confirmed by exhaustive exams. Conclusion: Pain normally is related to several factors, including biological, psychological and cultural. Some complex cases should be investigated by a multidisciplinary team of specialists, in order to identify extra-physiological components.
doi:10.2174/1876386301710010022 fatcat:artrd7qlpfdb3gidtwfrmhd66u