Delusional parasitosis: case series of 8 patients and review of the literature.
BACKGROUND
Delusional parasitosis (DP) is a condition in which a person has the unshakeable and mistaken belief of being infested with parasites.


METHODS
All patients with DP seen by the Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, National University Hospital were reviewed. The case histories of 8 Chinese patients are discussed.


RESULTS
The patients with DP were predominantly women above 50 years of age, with medical co-morbidities and presented with a variety of symptoms and signs. The patients were prescribed various antipsychotics including the atypical antipsychotics. Response was variable, and the patients often defaulted follow-up. An approach to the management of DP is proposed together with a review of the literature.
Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, National University Hospital, Singapore.
D C W
DC
Aw
J Y
JY
Thong
H L
HL
Chan
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D014150:Antipsychotic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D003702:Delusions; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010272:Parasitic Diseases / Q000523:psychology*; D010868:Pimozide / Q000627:therapeutic use; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D012189:Retrospective Studies
D014150:Antipsychotic Agents; D010868:Pimozide