Pediatria pre prax 6/2003
Münchhausenov syndróm
Munchhausen syndrome Munchhausen syndrome is described by self mutilation inflicted by a patient without any apparent cause and benefit. Munchhausen syndrome by proxy belongs to group of syndromes of tortured children (CAN syndrome), the most common case is that, when a mother pretends imaginary problems of her own child or she induces them by herself. Typical are numerous futile doctor visits, required repeated not indicated hospitalizations, examinations and drugs abuse. This disease occurs in 1/3 among hospital employees, it is hard to be recognized and treated. The authors describe their 5 own cases of MS, one has been by proxy, the other case of MS is longitudinal, about 30 years of duration of adult patient, the rest of 3 cases are “primary” MS occurring in children. The attention is given to difficulties in diagnosis and therapy. Key words: Münchhausen syndrome, Münchhausen syndrome by proxy, child abuse and neglect – CAN syndrome.
