Author: Marc D Feldman, MD; Chief Editor: Glen L Xiong, MD more... Treatment of factitious disorder imposed on another (FDIA) most centrally involves protecting and treating the victim (most commonly, a child). Attention should also be paid to the perpetrator (typically a parent, most frequently the biologic mother) and the family. [ 46, 47]

According to DMRF, there is no evidence that vaccinations cause dystonia. The DMRF asked a panel of preeminent movement disorder experts to examine this closely several years ago when a story surfaced of a woman who claimed to have developed “dystonia” following a flu immunization. It was later established the dystonia diagnosis was not correct. In contrast, preliminary research suggests certain vaccinations may actually be protective against certain forms of dystonia. As with any medical procedure, the DMRF encourages individuals to discuss the risks and benefits of immunizations with their doctors.

Once the first goal is met, treatment aims to resolve any underlying psychological issues that may be causing the behavior. The primary treatment for factitious disorder is psychotherapy (a type of counseling). Treatment likely will focus on changing the thinking and behavior of the individual with the disorder (cognitive-behavioral therapy).

Factitious disorder imposed on another is falsification of manifestations of an illness in another person, typically done by caregivers to someone in their care. (See also Overview of Somatization and Factitious Disorder Imposed on Self .) Previously, this disorder was known as factitious disorder by proxy or Munchausen syndrome by proxy.