[Pseudologia fantastica. Recognition and treatment of pathological lying].
Although a clear definition of pseudologia fantastica cannot be found in the literature, there is consensus that this condition differs quantitatively and qualitatively from 'normal lying'. We discuss recognition of pseudologia fantastica based on 2 patients who presented with suicidal ideations at the casualty department following a traumatic event. Early recognition is important in order to break the pattern of lying, to restrict the use of medical resources and, finally, to act in accordance with the general principle of 'primum-non-nocere'. Although a psychiatric diagnostic workup might be worthwhile, it remains difficult to engage these patients for psychiatric treatment.
Groen
Wouter B
WB
Universitair Medisch Centrum St. Radboud, Afd. Psychiatrie, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
The
Gerard K H
GK
Pop-Purceleanu
Monica
M
Lagro-Janssen
Toine
T
Fortuyn
Hal A Droogleever
HA
Voshaar
Richard C Oude
RC
D008192:Deception; D005162:Factitious Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D028642:Persons with Psychiatric Disorders; D008875:Middle Aged; D013405:Suicide / Q000523:psychology; D000092864:Suicide Prevention