title: Malingering by Proxy: A Literature Review and Current Perspectives.
abstract: Malingering by proxy (MAL-BP) is a form of maltreatment that involves a caregiver who fabricates or induces signs or symptoms in a child, dependent adult, or pet in pursuit of external, tangible incentives. Rarely studied, MAL-BP has an unknown prevalence, and is a challenging diagnosis for healthcare professionals. Therefore, a comprehensive computer literature search and review was conducted. The review uncovered a total of sixteen case reports of MAL-BP (eleven human, five veterinary). The motive for malingering was financial in all human cases and medication-seeking in all veterinary cases. Although the strategies employed differed among the identified cases, common themes regarding the best approach to identification of MAL-BP cases became evident. A comprehensive workup including a thorough history, physical examination, appropriate neuropsychological testing, and relevant collateral information forms the basis of an effective identification strategy. The optimal method of management is currently unclear due to a relative paucity of data and guidelines. However, management of these cases would likely include a team-based approach with a prudent assessment of safety for the proxy and a low threshold for referral to appropriate services. Long-term follow-up is essential and should be approached from a biopsychosocial perspective. Attention, research, and guidance on this topic are needed to develop further evidence-based guidelines for the identification and management of MAL-BP.
authors.affiliation: The University of Alabama Tuscaloosa, AL c/o 2609 Crowne Ridge Court Birmingham, AL, 35243-5351.
authors.forename: Adam
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Amlani
authors.affiliation: The University of Alabama Tuscaloosa, AL c/o 2609 Crowne Ridge Court Birmingham, AL, 35243-5351.
authors.forename: Gurinder S
authors.initials: GS
authors.lastname: Grewal
authors.affiliation: The University of British Columbia, 2329 West Mall Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z4.
authors.forename: Marc D
authors.initials: MD
authors.lastname: Feldman
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D002675:Child, Preschool; D006801:Humans; D008306:Malingering; D016735:Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy; D009483:Neuropsychological Tests; D015995:Prevalence; D012017:Referral and Consultation
keywords: Munchausen; behavioral sciences; child abuse; disability; factitious; forensic science; malingering; proxy