Dysfunction of stress responsive systems in somatization

PhD Ceremony: mw. L.M. Tak, 14.45 uur, Academiegebouw, Broerstraat 5, Groningen

Dissertation: Dysfunction of stress responsive systems in somatization

Promotor(s): prof.dr. J. Ormel, prof.dr. J.P.J. Slaets

Faculty: Medical Sciences

Contact: via the UMCG, tel. 050-361 2200, e-mail: voorlichting bvl.umcg.nl

In this thesis, we perform meta-analyses and prospective population-based studies to investigate the association between dysfunction of stress responsive systems and somatization. We conclude that dysfunction of stress responsive systems is not a necessary factor for somatization in general. However, alterations in the three stress responsive systems, such as lowered cardiac vagal activity, hypocortisolism, and possibly low-grade immune activation, may be pivotal in the etiology in specific groups of patients with somatization. Such subgroups need to be better identified in order to improve treatment strategies.