Pediatric Somatic Symptom Disorder Masquerading as Tetany- A Case Report

We report a case of an 11-year-8-month-old girl who presented with complaints of nausea, vomiting, and headache, followed by stiffness of both hands, which resolved with intravenous fluid administration. Investigations to rule out an organic cause all turned out to be negative. On further probing, the child had similar complaints in the past 6 months, which all turned out to be medically disproven. Pediatric Somatic Symptom Disorder was suspected as per the criteria. Father also had anxiety, and as per history, Father exerts punishments when the child is disobedient. Mother had anxiety about visiting and staying in the hospital premises. Psychiatric counseling was done, and family psychoeducation was given.