Definition

Delusional Parasitosis refers to a psychiatric condition in which individuals firmly believe they are infested by parasites, despite having no actual evidence of such infestation. It is classified as a type of delusional disorder, characterized by a fixed false belief that is not influenced by any reasoning or evidence to the contrary.

Symptoms

People experiencing delusional parasitosis may exhibit the following symptoms:

• Visible signs of distress: The affected individual may constantly feel anxious, agitated, or worried due to their belief in parasitic infestation.
• Intense itching and self-inflicted skin damage: Individuals may itch or scratch their skin in an attempt to remove imagined parasites, leading to various forms of skin lesions or sores.
• Constant searching for evidence: Delusional parasitosis sufferers often spend hours examining their skin, clothing, and immediate environment in search of proof of infestation, such as fibers, larvae, or other imagined parasites.
• Isolation and social withdrawal: The distress caused by the delusions can lead to a decline in social interactions and personal relationships, as affected individuals may feel embarrassed or stigmatized by their beliefs.
• Resistant to alternate explanations: Despite medical professionals reassuring them of the absence of parasites, individuals with delusional parasitosis remain deeply convinced of their infestation and may reject any other explanations.

Treatment

Treating delusional parasitosis often involves a combination of psychological interventions and medication.

Psychological Interventions

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is commonly used to help individuals challenge and modify their irrational beliefs about parasitic infestation. Therapists may also work on stress management techniques and help patients improve their coping mechanisms for anxiety and distress.

Medication

Antipsychotic medications are frequently prescribed to help alleviate delusions and manage accompanying symptoms. The type and dosage of medication may vary depending on individual needs and response to treatment.

It is essential for individuals experiencing delusional parasitosis to seek professional help from mental health experts, such as psychiatrists or psychologists, to ensure proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment plans.