Idiopathic burning mouth syndrome: a common treatment-refractory somatoform condition responsive to ECT

Abstract

Somatic symptom disorders are common causes of disability and suffering, and can pose significant management challenges. Idiopathic burning mouth syndrome is a challenging somatic symptom disorder with relatively high prevalence, particularly among post-menopausal women. Here, we present the case of a woman with severe treatment refractory idiopathic burning mouth syndrome and comorbid major depressive disorder, who was successfully treated with bitemporal electroconvulsive therapy. This case highlights the potential effectiveness of electroconvulsive therapy in idiopathic burning mouth syndrome when other treatment options have been exhausted.

Keywords: electroconvulsive therapy; idiopathic burning mouth syndrome; major depressive disorder; somatic symptom disorder.