Which disorder is characterized by patients frequently preoccupied with having a serious illness despite little to no somatic symptoms?

Illness Anxiety Disorder is characterized by a preoccupation with having or acquiring a serious illness, even when there are minimal or no physical symptoms present. Individuals with this disorder may misinterpret normal bodily sensations or minor symptoms as indicators of severe medical conditions. This excessive worry about health can lead to significant distress and impairment in daily functioning.

In contrast, Somatic Symptom Disorder involves the presence of one or more somatic symptoms that are distressing or result in significant disruption of daily life. Body Dysmorphic Disorder focuses on an excessive preoccupation with perceived defects or flaws in physical appearance, which are not observable or appear minor to others. Conversion Disorder manifests as neurological symptoms, such as paralysis or seizures, that cannot be explained by medical conditions, often linked to psychological stress rather than a preoccupation with illness itself. The distinct feature of Illness Anxiety Disorder lies in the predominance of anxiety surrounding health, without substantial somatic symptoms to substantiate those fears.