Delusional of Parasitosis in Geriatric Patients

Abstract

IntroductionDelusional of parasitosis or Ekbom's syndrome (ES) is a psychiatric disorder in which the patient has a fixed and false belief that small organisms infest the body. The belief is often accompanied by hallucinations. It is an uncommon condition that was initially studied by dermatologists, more prevalent in the elderly and typically observed in women older than 50 years although isolated cases among men have been reported.ObjectiveTo review current knowledge about delusional of parasitosis in elderly patients through literature systematic review and the analysis of a case report.MethodologyWe performed a literature search using electronic manuscripts available in PubMed database published during the last five years, following the description and discussion of a clinical case. We report a case of an 85-year-old man who presented a delusional parasitosis as a primary disorder.ResultsThe literature on ES consists mostly of case reports and limited series. In this paper, we analyze the etiology, demographic characteristics, clinical features and treatment in geriatric patients with delusional parasitosis.ConclusionInternational classifications have included this syndrome in non-schizophrenic delusions. However, it has also been reported in schizophrenia, affective disorders, and organic or induced psychosis. Treatment is based on antipsychotic agents, psychotherapy and cooperation between dermatologists and psychiatrists.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.