Question

What is the difference between hypochondriasis and conversion disorder?

Answer 1

The distinction between the two conditions is that conversion disorder is EXPLICITLY identified as a response to conflict or stress, and the symptoms are related to motor or sensory functions ONLY.

Hypochondriasis is quite different. This is a preoccupation with fears of having, or the idea that one has, a serious disease although symptoms may be mild or nonexsistant, and symptoms may not cause noticable impairment although the patient may experience significant distress. This fear persists despite appropriate medical evaluation and reassurance.