[Somatoform disorders--what must the general practitioner know?].

Somatoform disorders are common conditions. Provided that the diagnostic criteria are known, however, they are not difficult to diagnose. In this connection, the family doctor has it within his power, by initiating empathic client-centred (conversation) therapy with the patient, to create a basis for a confidence-building and a long-lasting physician-patient relationship. In addition to a psychotherapeutic intervention or psychodynamic treatment or behavioral treatment, we now have the first positive results of a psychopharmacological treatment regimen with opipramol and the St. John's Wort extract LI 160.