Symptoms of Unknown Origin: A Medical Odyssey

by Clifton K. Meador MD

For years after graduating from medical school, Dr. Clifton K. Meador assumed that symptoms of the body, when obviously not imaginary, indicate a disease of the body--something to be treated with drugs, surgery, or other traditional means. But, over several decades, as he saw patients with clear symptoms but no discernable disease, he concluded that his own assumptions were too narrow and, indeed, that the underlying basis for much of clinical medicine was severely limited.

Recounting a series of fascinating case studies, Meador shows in this book how he came to reject a strict adherence to the prevailing biomolecular model of disease and its separation of mind and body. He studied other theories and approaches--George Engel's biopsychosocial model of disease, Michael Balint's study of physicians as pharmacological agents--and adjusted his practice accordingly to treat what he called "nondisease." He had to retool, learn new and more in-depth interviewing and listening techniques, and undergo what Balint termed a "slight but significant change in personality."

In chapters like "The Woman Who Believed She Was a Man" and "The Diarrhea of Agnes," Meador reveals both the considerable harm that can result from wrong diagnoses of nonexistent diseases and the methods he developed to help patients with chronic symptoms not defined by a medical disease. Throughout the book, he recommends subsequent studies to test his observations, and he urges full application of the scientific method to the doctor-patient relationship, pointing out that few objective studies of these all-important interactions have ever been done.

Genres: Medical

200 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2005

Reviews

[Marika · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting read on how a physician became intrigued by patients who had symptoms that couldn't be diagnosed. Part medical history history, part psychological sleuthing. The author illustrates how magical medicine can be when discoveries are made. Easy read, packed with patient stories.

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would like to thank the author, Dr. Clifton K. Meador, for providing me with a copy of this book to review. Symptoms of Unknown Origin: A Medical Odyssey details exceptions to the prevailing viewpoint of doctors, which is that the best way to diagnose and treat patients is by using the biomolecular model of disease. The author, a medical doctor with more than 50 years of experience, came to the realization that there is not always a disease responsible for a patient's symptoms. He feels that it is important to not separate mind and body, as this provides too restrictive of a view of a possible diagnosis. As far as Symptoms of Unknown Origin (or SUO) are concerned, there are some patients for whom a medical explanation is not readily apparent despite the symptoms they are displaying. Dr. Meador is a great storyteller and, I can imagine, has a wonderful bedside manner for his patients. With interesting case studies to emphasize his point, the author proves that not all symptoms are indicative of disease. Environmental, mental, and extenuating causes all have a part to play in the health and wellness of us all. I would recommend this book to medical professionals, medical enthusiasts, or to those patients for whom this perspective would be helpful.

[France-Andrée · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book while looking for something else, but what a lucky find. I think the subtitle is perfect, Dr. Meador does go through an odyssey from a narrow medical view that he learned through is schooling to a global view that encompasses all that can influence a patient. I liked how the author illustrated his evolution with different cases. I know this was written with young doctors in mind, but not having any medical background I still found this very fascinating and I think that some of his advice I can use. I read this through kobo+.

[Cynthia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Worthwhile reading for all medical professionals.