Document Type : Case reports
Authors
- Sudhamsu Gautam 1
- Prajjwal Pokharel 1
- Abishkar Thapa 1
- Prayas Gautam 1
- Silvia Maharjan 1
- Subash Wagle 2
- Susagya Bhusal 1
- Shreedhar Paudel 3
1 Health Foundation Nepal, Dang, Nepal
2 Central Department of Public Health, Institute of Medicine, Kathmandu, Nepal
3 Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts, U.S.A
Abstract
Background: Mass conversion disorder (MCD), or functional neurological symptom disorder, involves motor or
sensory symptoms without medical explanation that impair functioning. When such symptoms spread within groups,
it is termed MCD, which can often be seen in schools and can be shaped by cultural and social dynamics. This case
series examines the presentation, shared features and health-seeking behaviours of students affected by MCD in
Ghorahi municipality, Dang, Nepal.
Methods: Between June and August 2022, four public schools in Ghorahi reported MCD cases to the Health Foundation
Nepal (HFN). The rapid mental health team responded, conducting retrospective assessments through observation,
physical examination, and also interviews with students, parents and teachers. Clinical symptoms and demographic
data were compiled, standardised and descriptively analysed.
Results: Between June and August 2022, 20 female students aged 8 to 16 years (mean age 11.8 ± 1.98 years), mostly
from school grades 5 (30%) and 6 (30%), were affected across four public schools in Dang, Nepal. Headache (40%),
weakness with loss of coordination (35%), dizziness (25%), and cold periphery with numbness (25%) were major
symptoms reported. Up to 80% described experiences involving spirits, and 55% knew a family member with a similar
illness. Up to 95% had previous episodes, 90% had recurrences, 35% had parents separated due to divorce, and 30%
due to unemployment. None of the students’ parents had a formal education beyond grade 10. All affected students
were taken to traditional healers, and 50% also to hospitals, with timing and order of visits varying by case. Most
parents attributed the illness to spirit possession, and teachers noted the need for training and support to address
MCD cases.
Conclusions: MCD in Dang’s public schools was influenced by cultural beliefs and family stressors. There was a high
female prevalence, repeated MCD episodes, low parental education and a preference for traditional healing, which
suggests the need for school-based mental health programmes and further research.
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