Study of sociodemographic profile and cognitive impairment in patients of Conversion disorder : A cross sectional study

Conversion disorder, previously known in the medical literature as “hysteria” has engaged prominent individuals in the history of medicine, neurology and psychiatry. There have been recent studies indicate that cognitive phenomenon may be inadequate in conversion disorder and trying to utilize neuroimaging or other neurophysiological measures in an attempt to understand the underlying functional neuroanatomical basis of conversion disorder. AIM: Present study planned to explore sociodemographic profile and cognitive impairment in patients of conversion disorder attending psychiatry out patient department or admitted in psychiatric ward at JN Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) Aligarh. In this study, we will assess the correlation between socio-demographic profile and cognitive impairment in conversion disorder patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: • The present study has been conducted in the Department of Psychiatry, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh. • The patients are assessed as per semi-structured proforma, in which their socio-demographic details, clinical history and mental status examination have been recorded. • Relevant laboratory tests and neuroimaging studies were done on each patient. • Neuropsychological tools have been applied to assess cognitive functions. RESULT: Most of the patients of conversion disorder were females belonging to rural population & lower socioeconomic status, having less education and have history of sexual abuse. Cognitive deficits are found in significant number of patients. Statistical significance of particular(s) will be discussed at the time of presentation.