Introduction:

Dhat's syndrome is the concern that the loss of semen causes loss of vital energy and, consequently, causes disease. It occurs mainly in young men from the south of Asia and presents in the form of nonspecific symptoms (such as weakness, sadness, and anxiety). This case intends to discuss the importance of a patient’s socio-cultural context and its approach in a primary health care setting.

Case description:

It is presented the case of a 44-year-old man, from Bangladesh, with no relevant personal and family history. A member of a nuclear family in his home country (in phase IV of Duvall’s life cycle), he emigrated to Portugal in 2010, where he lives alone. With no previous follow-up at the Health Center (USF), he requested an unscheduled consultation with complaints of weakness, anxiety, and a feeling of imminent death. He associated the symptoms with the emission of white liquid during urination. He denied having sexual contacts in the last 7 years. Considering the possible diagnostic of Dhat syndrome, an active listening posture was adopted. Reassessment appointments were scheduled, to which the patient adhered, and during which the doctor-patient therapeutic relationship was established, with progressive improvement of the symptoms.

Comment:

Multiculturality plays an increasingly important role in societies. The family doctor, as a gatekeeper, can play an important role in identifying cultural syndromes. Knowledge of this particular syndrome allowed for an individualized approach, avoiding inappropriate therapeutic measures, with a favorable outcome of the case.

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