Cultural influence in the development of delusional parasitosis: A case report

Abstract

Delusional parasitosis is a rare condition in which the patient has a false and unshakable belief of being infested by parasites. Delusional parasitosis was classified as a subtype of monosymptomatic hypochondriacal psychosis in old literature. Though the delusion is considered to be primary, at times it is described as an elaboration of a primary pathological experience such as a tactile hallucination, paresthesia or pruritus. Although several cases of delusional parasitosis have been reported, the role of cultural belief systems and native treatments in turning an idea into a delusional disorder has not been adequately studied. This paper reports a case of delusional parasitosis in which cultural factors played a major role in shaping the delusion. The case was effectively managed with risperidone.

Vulnerable Vagina: A Case of Delusional Parasitosis with Folie-a-Deux: Cultural Variant of Ekbom’s Syndrome?

“…Cultural belief systems may play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of DP. 6 Some Indian researchers have stressed the influence of Hindu cultural beliefs in the development of DP. They discussed the perceived vulnerability of the body orifices such as ears, eyes, mouth, and anal and urethral orifices in developing DP in Indian patients.…”