Psychosomatic or somatopsychotic? A critical analysis of psychosomatic Medicine

Objective: To assess the scientific foundations of the so-called "psychosomatic Medicine" underlying all medical and scientific concepts and statements, likewise in any science. Case reports are presented. Methods: The following issues were epistemologically tested: (i) the mind causes bodily diseases; (ii) depression causes cancer; (iii) stress causes myocardial infarction and other diseases and (iv) body language. In order to study the statements and propositions, the author used: (i) theories from the Enlightenment period; (ii) positivist theories and (iii) modern science theories. All these theories are presented briefly. Results: There is evidence of a spurious split between body and mind, which results in one-sided investigations - without questioning their actual existence. This split is also shown by the psychosomatic Medicine, which has added some additional problems to the field. Conclusions: Results of epistemological and psychoanalytic "assessments" enable a critical analysis of the psychosomatic model, without apparently being successful in presenting a holistic approach, and requiring alternatives. Recommended medical management of "psychosomatic patients" is also presented.