Factitious Disorders (cont.)
How Are Factitious Disorders Treated?
The first goal of treatment is to modify the person's behavior and reduce
his or her misuse or overuse of medical resources. In the case of factitious
disorder by proxy, the main goal is to ensure the safety and protection of any
real or potential victims. Once the initial goal is met, treatment aims to work
out any underlying psychological issues that may be causing the person's
behavior.
The primary treatment for factitious disorders is psychotherapy (a type of counseling).
Treatment likely will focus on changing the thinking and behavior of the
individual with the disorder (cognitive-behavioral therapy). Family therapy may
also be helpful in teaching family members not to reward or reinforce the
behavior of the person with the disorder.
There are no medications to treat factitious disorders themselves.
Medication may be used, however, to treat any related disorder -- such as depression, anxiety or a personality disorder. The
use of medications must be carefully monitored in people with factitious
disorders due to the risk that the drugs may be used in a harmful way.
What Is the Outlook for People with Factitious Disorders?
People with factitious disorders are at risk for health problems (or even
death) associated with hurting themselves or otherwise causing symptoms. In
addition, they may suffer from reactions or health problems related to multiple
tests, procedures and treatments; and are at high risk for substance abuse and
attempts at suicide. A complication of factitious disorder by proxy is the
abuse and potential death of the victims.
Because many people with factitious disorders deny they are faking symptoms
and will not seek or follow treatment, recovery is dependent on a doctor or
loved one identifying or suspecting the condition in the person and encouraging
them to receive proper medical care for their disorder and stick with it.
Some people with factitious disorders suffer one or two brief episodes of
symptoms and then get better. In most cases, however, the factitious disorder
is a chronic, or long-term, condition that can be very difficult to treat.
Can Factitious Disorders Be Prevented?
There is no known way to prevent factitious disorders.
Reviewed by the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic Department of Psychiatry and Psychology.
Edited by Charlotte E. Grayson, MD, WebMD, May 2004.
Portions of this page © The Cleveland Clinic 2000-2005
Last Editorial Review: 3/18/2008
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