Psychobiology of Functional Somatic Syndromes

Multiple somatic symptoms (MSS) include a range on non-specific symptoms such as musculoskeletal pain, fatigue and constipation, and are expressed in the absence of any clear pathology. MSS are associated with a reduced health status [1] and substantial increase in healthcare utilization [2]. A large and diverse group of diagnoses have been suggested as labels for these complaints; Somatization Disorder (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-V), fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, functional GI disorders and multiple chemical sensitivity have all been associated with the subjective reporting of these symptoms [3]. It is an important to focus on MSS in health research, rather than specific diseases or only a few symptoms since MSS are considered a predictor of negative health consequences, independent of other chronic diseases or psychopathology [4]. However, to date, limited research of MSS in an Australian community setting has been conducted, notwithstanding many sufferers of MSS do not seek help for their symptoms. Identifying, the prevalence of MSS in the community and related psychological predictors of its development and maintenance remains an important health priority.