Ganser syndrome and its management

Resolution of episode of major depressive disorder with emergence of Ganser syndrome symptoms

A 48 year old housewife, admitted with a diagnosis of major depressive episode suddenly developed Ganser syndrome during the course of her illness. This resulted in spontaneous resolution of symptoms of depression. The resolution of intrapsychic conflict as a result of development of Ganser syndrome which led to sudden remission of major depressive episode is discussed.

The Ganser syndrome in two adolescent brothers

The Ganser syndrome is rare in children and adolescents. Two cases of Ganser syndrome in adolescent brothers, both of whom developed the syndrome while in jail and awaiting trial, are presented. Both brothers subsequently developed signs and symptoms indicative of affective disorder. The differential diagnosis and the management of these two patients are discussed in the light of the nosological controversies surrounding this clinical entity.

Ganser syndrome followed by major depressive episode

A case of complete Ganser syndrome resolved after one week, but was immediately followed by a major depressive episode. The two disorders had a common cause, which is best encapsulated in a psychodynamic formulation.

Neuropsychological presentation of Ganser symptoms

We describe a patient with memory complaints whose history of head injury, polysubstance abuse and positive neurological findings suggested the presence of dementia. Neuropsychological testing revealed inconsistent performance plus multiple verbal and visuospatial approximate answers leading to the diagnosis of a Ganser episode. This case illustrates the importance of neuropsychological assessment in diagnosing Ganser symptoms and in differentiating this disorder from organic conditions and malingering.