The Obsession of Having an Infectious Disease: The Story of a Man Diagnosed with Extreme Somatoform Disorder in Hanoi

A 30-year-old man in Hanoi has been visiting multiple hospitals due to his obsession with having an infectious disease. The patient, who had been engaging in risky sexual behavior outside of his home without using protection, had been experiencing symptoms such as blisters and pimples around his genital area, leading him to believe he had contracted an infectious disease.

Upon examination at the Hanoi Medical University Hospital, doctors tested the patient for 12 infectious disease agents, but found no evidence of any infections. However, the patient did have a decreased libido, prompting further investigation into his mental health. Associate Professor, Dr. Nguyen Hoai Bac, diagnosed the patient with extreme somatoform disorder, a mental health condition characterized by a persistent belief in having a medical condition despite medical evidence to the contrary.

The patient’s fixation on having an infectious disease has led to a decline in his mental health and he is now receiving both mental health and sexual treatment to prevent further deterioration and the development of anxiety disorders or depression. Somatoform disorder is a chronic condition that can significantly impact a person’s social and occupational functioning and requires specialized treatment to address the patient’s symptoms and prevent its progression.

It is crucial for individuals with somatoform disorder to seek proper medical care and follow the advice of mental health professionals to improve their condition and prevent further complications. Awareness, diagnosis, and treatment are essential in managing this challenging mental health condition and preventing its negative impact on an individual’s overall well-being.