How is MCS diagnosed?
Unlike allergies or other
immune-mediated sensitivities, which can be confirmed through
appropriate testing, there are no tests to diagnose MCS. However,
it is important for the physician evaluating a patient with
suspected MCS to rule out organic pathologies that may be mistaken
for MCS, if the history is indicative. These can include somatic
disorders such as allergic rhinitis, occupational asthma,
irritant-induced asthma, or reactive airways dysfunction syndrome.
Other illnesses that can mimic MCS include those with vague or
subtle presentations, such as hypercalcemia, hypothyroidism,
systemic lupus erythematosus, multiple sclerosis, and fibromyalgia.
Psychiatric illnesses that may coexist with MCS, present as MCS, or
mimic MCS include somatoform disorders, panic and other anxiety
disorders, depression, and personality disorders.
How is MCS treated?
Many health care providers
recommend avoiding the chemicals or foods that seem to trigger
reactions. While this advice makes logical sense, in extreme cases
of MCS it can lead to social isolation and withdrawal. The best
advice is to establish a respectful and empathetic
physician-patient relationship. The goals of therapy should be to
maximize rehabilitation, control (not cure) symptoms through
education, and provide reassurance. Essential to this is the
treatment of any concomitant psychiatric or somatic illness.