Medically Unexplained Symptoms: A Systematic Umbrella Review of Current Terminology and Reported Rationales.
Clin J PainSep 16, 2026 (epub)
Clinical ResearchPsychiatry
A B Myles, A Ejova, R M J de Zoete et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic umbrella review examined the terminology surrounding Medically Unexplained Symptoms (MUS) across 422 reviews. It identified 111 distinct terms, with 'functional' being the most common (n=233). The study highlights significant variability in terminology, suggesting a need for a more standardized language to improve diagnosis and management of MUS.
Key findings
- A total of 577 references to 111 terms were identified across the reviews.
- Thirty percent of terms (n=179) referred to specific syndromes or terms without overarching classification.
- Over 60% of authors were from three main disciplines: medicine, allied health, and psychology.
- Rationales for terminology often emphasized differences in psychological and medical fields.
Why it matters
Inconsistent terminology for MUS can hinder effective communication and treatment strategies among healthcare providers. A standardized language could enhance understanding and improve patient outcomes in managing these complex symptoms.