Comorbidity between delusional disorder and chronic physical conditions. Results from the Deliranda case register

Abstract

IntroductionMental disorders are often comorbid with chronic physical conditions. This relationship has been looked into in some mental disorders, such as depression or schizophrenia. However, very few studies have explored this comorbidity in the delusional disorder.ObjectivesThe objective of this study is to establish the prevalence of common chronic medical conditions across delusional disorder.AimsThe aim is to provide useful information regarding this frequent, often disregarded, comorbidity.MethodsOur results proceed from the Andalusian delusional disorder case-register (DelirAnda). We reviewed 1927 clinical histories of patients diagnosed of delusional disorder. Upon having verified the diagnosis following DSM-5 criteria, we recollected data on the prevalence of 10 different medical conditions, which were defined based on clinical diagnosis.ResultsOne thousand four hundred and fifty-two patients matched DSM-5 delusional disorder criteria. Among them, 49.8% of our sample were women. The overall prevalence of medical conditions was 66%. Thirty-one percent of the patients with delusional disorder had only one comorbid physical condition, 20% of them suffered from two conditions, and 15% of them had three or more chronic conditions. The most prevalent physical condition among delusional disorder patients was diabetes, affecting 16% of these patients.ConclusionsChronic physical conditions are highly prevalent among patients with delusional disorder. Comorbid physical conditions may have an important impact on the course of delusional disorder. A correct diagnosis and treatment of this comorbidity should be made to help improve the prognosis and life quality of these patients.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.