FACTITIOUS DISEASE AS THE CAUSE FOR UNEXP LAINED HEAD AND NECK DISEASE

Until now reports of factitious disease have not been found in the ENT Literature, In contrast, the dermatologic literature estimates an inc idence from 0.01 to 0.26%, In order to achieve effective treatment for these patients, knowledge of the characteristic symptoms is fundament al, The present paper describes the variety of disease possible, using three cases treated between 1992 and 1994 in the ENT Department of Co logne, According to the literature, females are involved in a ratio of 9:1, with the majority working in medically related professions. Depr ession and anorexia are typical symptoms, When a factitious disease is suspected, psychiatric consultation is essential, Confrontation of a suspect patient by the otolaryngologist is not often considered becaus e several reports quote suicidal behavior in up to 25% of self-manipul ating patients and tendencies to refuse to follow psychiatric treatmen t are considerable.