A 30-year-old man in Hanoi had been experiencing symptoms like blisters and small pimples around his genital area for over a year, which led him to believe he had contracted an infectious disease. He visited hospitals multiple times, engaging in unprotected sex and failing to take precautions.
On April 14, Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen Hoai Bac, the Head of the Department of Andrology and Gender at Hanoi Medical University Hospital, revealed that the patient had not taken any steps to protect himself from sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). The doctor recommended further examination for mental health issues, stating that sexual dysfunction can be an early sign of mental health problems.
The patient was diagnosed with “extreme somatoform disorder,” a chronic mental illness characterized by a persistent belief in having a medical condition despite reassurance from medical professionals. This can lead to excessive testing and examination, impacting the patient’s daily life for years.
Somatoform disorder is a serious condition that requires proper awareness and treatment from specialists. Patients must understand the nature of the disorder and follow a treatment plan to address both their physical and mental health concerns. It is important to seek out professional help if experiencing symptoms or engaging in risky behavior that could lead to more serious conditions like anxiety disorders, depression, and potentially life-threatening situations.
The patient is now receiving simultaneous treatment for both his mental health and sexual issues to prevent the development of more serious conditions.
