The Teenager With “Conversion Disorder”

Share this:

Riya, 17, came in with sudden paralysis of both legs. MRI of the spine was normal. Reflexes were brisk, but she couldn’t move. A previous neurologist had labeled it “conversion disorder.”

But when I examined her carefully, I noticed asymmetrical tone and a sensory level. I repeated imaging with contrast—transverse myelitis lit up her thoracic cord. CSF confirmed an autoimmune process. She received high-dose steroids and plasmapheresis.

Two weeks later, she walked out of the hospital.


The Lesson Learned

Rule out every organic cause—twice—before labeling something functional. Misdiagnosis can steal the chance for timely recovery.

Watch The Complete Interview

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Launch login modal Launch register modal