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StatPearls, LLC

  • Factitious Disorders
  • Munchausen Syndrome
  • Patient Participation
  • Seizures
  • Social Isolation

Factitious Disorder Overview

Factitious disorder imposed on self (FDIS), previously known as Munchausen syndrome, presents a complex clinical challenge characterized by intentional production or falsification of physical or psychological symptoms without external incentives. Falling under somatic symptom and related disorders in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, FDIS often eludes diagnosis due to inconsistent clinical findings, an eagerness to undergo invasive procedures, and resistance to psychiatric evaluation. This course examines the clinical presentation of FDIS, characterized by vague or dramatic symptoms such as infections, seizures, or wounds that persist despite extensive workup. The Munchausen subtype involves a chronic pattern of peregrination, pseudologia fantastica, and self-inflicted harm, often leaving behind a trail of unnecessary surgeries and altered medical records. This course also reviews the psychological underpinnings of FDIS such as unresolved childhood trauma, social isolation, or a need for control and guides more empathetic, nonconfrontational care strategies. Clinicians must maintain vigilance for red flags, obtain prior records, and coordinate with psychiatry and other professionals to promote safe, patient-centered care. Psychotherapy remains the primary treatment, though patient engagement is often limited. This activity for healthcare professionals is designed to enhance the learner’s competence in identifying FDIS, performing the recommended evaluation, and implementing an appropriate interprofessional approach when managing this condition, reducing the burden on healthcare systems.

Credit & MOC Details

Credit information is provided by the course provider. We recommend confirming credit eligibility with the provider or your licensing board before starting the activity.

Credit types

AAPA Category 1 Credit™Up to 1.5 creditsAMA PRA Category 1 Credit™Up to 1.5 creditsNursingUp to 1.5 creditsPharmacyUp to 1.5 creditsSocial WorkUp to 1.5 credits

MOC types

ABS — Accredited CMEUp to 1.5 pointsABOS — Accredited CMEUp to 1.5 pointsABA — Lifelong LearningUp to 1.5 pointsABTS — Accredited CMEUp to 1.5 pointsABIM — Medical KnowledgeUp to 1.5 pointsABS — Self-AssessmentUp to 1.5 pointsABP — Lifelong Learning and Self-AssessmentUp to 1.5 pointsABOHNS — Self-AssessmentUp to 1.5 pointsABTS — Self-AssessmentUp to 1.5 points

FDA REMS

No

Qualifies for MIPS

No

Target Specialties

Cross-Specialty

Relevant across 10 specialties.

Pricing

Fee varies

This provider typically $49–98

See fees on statpearls.com

Listed by the provider

  • Article / monograph / reference
  • Credit · Up to 1.5 credits
  • MOC · Up to 1.5 points
  • Fee varies · this provider typically $49–98
  • Released
    Sep 1, 2026
  • Last day to claim credit
    Sep 1, 2029 3 years left

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