Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) and the concept of alexithymia – a preliminary study

Twenty women suffering from burning mouth syndrome (BMS) were rated with regard to alexithymic traits, depressive symptoms and anxiety; values were compared to disability level assessed by interviews. Results confirm earlier reports that BMS symptomatology is associated with depression and anxiety. The majority of patients were rated as alexithymic and, supported by interview data; these results indicate that somatization should be taken into consideration during clinical evaluation of BMS symptoms. The study included a psychological analysis of the communication pattern in the patient-doctor relationship, leading to the assumption that the patient's appeal for somatic treatment, dependency and hopelessness may activate defensive reactions in the dentist. Such reactions can be either rejection of, or compliance with, the patient's demands. The importance of a differentiated assessment and treatment approach for these patients is emphasized. Due to lack of control data the report should be viewed as a pilot study.