AN EPIDEMIC OF RESPIRATORY COMPLAINTS EXACERBATED BY MASS PSYCHOGENIC ILLNESS IN A MILITARY RECRUIT POPULATION

摘要: The authors report an episode of mass psychogenic illness exacerbating respiratory symptoms in military recruits. epidemic occurred over a 10- to 12-hour period September 1988, group initially complaining cough and pleuritic chest pain. More than 1,800 men were evacuated from their barracks because suspected toxic gaseous exposure. Approximately 1,000 recruits developed at least one new symptom, 375 by ambulance receive further medical evaluation, eight hospitalized. Air sample testing the area was unremarkable, there few abnormal physical examination or laboratory findings. epidemiologic investigation included questionnaire administered 2 weeks after involved. A total 55% those who completed reported onset symptom supper, with 25% reporting cough, light-headedness, pain, shortness breath, headache, sore throat, dizziness. 18% received evaluation. development receipt evaluation associated evidence stress, mental awareness rumors odors, gases, and/or smoke. This unique its size occurrence all-male population.