Fabricated or induced illness (FII) and perplexing presentations (PP)

Also called Fabricated or induced illness and perplexing presentations. That is the name used in diagnostic manuals and on most official paperwork.

Words used when professionals worry that an adult is making a child seem more ill than they are, or making them ill. This is rare, and asking for help or a second opinion is not the same thing.

Applies across the UK

You might meet these phrases in your child's notes or in a referral referral When a professional passes your child on to a specialist team for assessment or treatment. A GP, school or health visitor can usually make one. Read the full definition of referral . Fabricated or induced illness (FII) is the serious concern that a child's symptoms are being exaggerated or caused by a parent or carer. Perplexing presentations (PP) is a newer, wider phrase for situations where reported symptoms and what professionals observe do not yet line up. Both are rare.

Parents of children waiting for an autism Autism Autism is a difference in how the brain develops. It shapes how an autistic child sees and experiences the world, how they communicate, and how they respond to things like noise, light and touch. Read the full definition of Autism or ADHD assessment Diagnostic assessment The appointments where specialists work out whether your child meets the criteria for a diagnosis, such as autism or ADHD. It is the step that can end with a diagnosis. Read the full definition of Diagnostic assessment can be touched by this, because two normal parts of seeking an assessment, describing things professionals have not seen for themselves and asking for a second opinion, also appear on the professional checklists of possible warning signs. Describing what your child does at home is not fabrication, and this entry exists so the words do not ambush you. It can help to keep things factual: note dates, keep copies of letters, and describe what you see rather than what you think it means.

If you find these words used about your family, get advice early. IPSEA or a solicitor with education and family experience can help you understand what is happening and how to respond.

Other words for this

  • You might hear Munchausen syndrome by proxy

    An older name you may still see in old records or news stories. Professionals now say fabricated or induced illness instead, and perplexing presentations for the wider, less certain situations.

Where this comes from

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