emDocs - September 18, 2017 - Authors: Cisewski D and Cassella C
Edited by: Koyfman A and Long B
"Summary
In the absence of a previous history or psychiatric condition, a nonorganic cause of acute symptoms is a diagnosis of exclusion. In addition, one must never assume factitious disorder or malingering until other conditions are ruled out. When psychosis is prematurely assumed to be related to psychiatric condition versus organic cause, delay in failure to treat can be deadly. Hence, the importance of a proper review. Look for signs of organic causes, and be sure to gather a proper history. Most importantly, beware of your cognitive bias during certain patient presentations, and ensure you’re covering all possibilities before making a final diagnosis."