Medically unexplained symptoms and somatisation are the fifth most common reason for visits to doctors in the USA, and form one of the most expensive diagnostic categories in Europe. The range of disorders involved includes irritable bowel syndrome, chronic widespread pain and chronic fatigue syndrome. This book reviews the current literature, clarifies and disseminates clear information about the size and scope of the problem, and discusses current and future national and international guidelines. It also identifies barriers to progress and makes evidence-based recommendations for the management of medically unexplained symptoms and somatisation. Written and edited by leading experts in the field, this authoritative text defines international best practice and is an important resource for psychiatrists, clinical psychologists, primary care doctors and those responsible for establishing health policy.

Rapid changes are taking place in the practice of psychiatry and nowhere is this more pronounced than in its community aspects. Although much that has changed sometimes appears to have done so without adequate forethought or research there is already a considerable body of knowledge that underscores recent developments. In this book, first published in 1995, prominent researchers in this expanding subject debate the implications of knowledge derived from a variety of sources, and look ahead to impending developments that will need further research enquiry. The chapters are wide in scope and topical in content and the discussions after each are frank and informative. This book will be of help to all those involved in the organisation of psychiatric care.