Evaluating Commonalities between Different Medically Unexplained Symptoms

Dan Guo, University of Melbourne
Maria Kleinstäuber, University of Otago
Malcolm Henry Johnson, University of Auckland
Frederick Sundram, University of Auckland

Abstract

This commentary presents commonalities in medically unexplained symptoms (MUS) across multiple organ systems, including symptoms, aetiological mechanisms, comorbidity with mental health disorders, symptom burden and impact on quality of life. Further, treatment outcomes and barriers in the clinician–patient relationship, and cross-cultural experiences are highlighted. This discussion is necessary in aiding an improved understanding and management of MUS due to the interconnectedness underlying MUS presentations across the spectrum of medical specialties.