Efficacy of internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy on somatic symptom disorder and common related functional disorders: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials - 06/03/26
, Yinghong Li b, 1 , Zihua He a, 1 , Xiutian Sima c, ⁎ , Jinmei Li a, ⁎⁎ Abstract |
Introduction |
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is recommended for somatic symptom disorder (SSD) and functional somatic syndromes. Face-to-face CBT is limited by accessibility barriers. Internet-based CBT (iCBT) addresses the aforementioned limitations. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of iCBT in SSD and common functional somatic syndromes.
Methods |
A meta-analysis was conducted, following the PRISMA statement for study screening. Databases including PubMed, Embase, and CENTRAL. The primary outcomes included somatic symptoms and health anxiety. Secondary outcomes included mood-related outcomes, functioning, and sleep.
Results |
A total of 23 studies were included (1746 iCBT-group vs 1553 control-group patients). Post-treatment, iCBT showed no significant effect difference vs. other psychotherapies (Hedges'g [95% CI]: general symptoms = 0.09 [−0.11; 0.28]; health anxiety: = 0.18 [−0.17; 0.52]), but outperformed waitlisting across most symptoms (Hedges'g [95% CI]: general symptoms = 0.30 [0.12; 0.48]; gastrointestinal = 0.62 [0.35; 0.88]; fatigue = 0.47 [0.25; 0.68]; health anxiety = 0.71 [0.26; 1.16]). The effect of iCBT was not significantly different or slightly higher than treatment as usual after treatment (Hedges'g [95% CI]: gastrointestinal = 0.41 [0.23; 0.58]; fatigue = 0.65 [−0.51; 1.82]; fibromyalgia = 0.27 [0.00; 0.55]). The pooled adverse event rate in the iCBT group was 27%, with no serious adverse events reported.
Discussion |
The iCBT is an effective intervention for SSD and common functional somatic syndromes. However, heterogeneity still exists among subtypes, and personalized plans need to be formulated.
Le texte complet de cet article est disponible en PDF.Highlights |
• | ICBT improves somatic symptoms and health anxiety with benefits lasting 12 months. |
• | ICBT has no significant difference versus other psychotherapies, is higher to waitlist, and similar or slightly higher versus TAU. |
• | ICBT exerts moderate effects on improving anxiety, depression, and functioning, small effect on sleep. |
• | The adverse event rate of iCBT is 27%, with no serious adverse events reported. |
Keywords : iCBT, Digital medicine, Psychology therapy, Cognitive behavioral therapy, Medically unexplained symptoms, SSD
Plan
Vol 99
P. 92-101 - mars 2026 Retour au numéro
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