Clinical studies show a higher prevalence of psychotic diseases among migrant patients. There are multiple suggested factors for this prevalence: Genetic, psychotic, factors induced by substances... We have based this article on two explanations often supported by studies: The diagnostic bias and the way migrant patients are contacted within the care system. The case we have studied is that of a young Burundian woman who decompensated in a psychotic mode. When she was brought to the emergency ward by the police she was suffering a delirious episode due to problems in her marriage. After a forced hospitalisation (unjustified a posteriori) she was given an antipsychotic treatment which allowed her to go home after a short time. We have articulated the first part of the discussion around the diagnosis of a delirious episode and its difference with a diagnosis of schizophrenia. The second point of the discussion concerns the way migrants get in touch with the care system: Notably by a more systematic appeal to the emergency units. We have also approached the question of the diagnostic bias migrant patients are frequently victims of. The third point of the discussion concerns the perception families of migrant patients have of mental illness. Finally, the fourth point of the discussion underlines the necessity of considering the existence of previous traumatic events of migrant subjects, mainly among those who have migrated for political reasons. © 2007.

Difficult access to care system Diagnostic Bias « Bouffée délirante » Specialised coverage migrant

female politics neuroleptic agent hospitalization emergency ward posttraumatic stress disorder delirium diagnostic approach route migrant worker diagnostic test Article human psychosis