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Delusional Disorder, Erotomanic Type, Exacerbated by Social Media Use
Justin Faden1, Jonathan Levin2, Ronak Mistry2
1Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, 100 E. Lehigh Ave, Suite 305B, Philadelphia, PA 19125, USA.
Abstract:
Erotomania is an uncommon form of delusional disorder in which an individual has an unfounded belief that another is in love with him. Previous case reports have shown that social media networks may play a role in worsening delusional beliefs. We report the case of a 24-year-old male college student that utilized social media to stalk a female college student, resulting in his suspension from school and hospitalization. The student was diagnosed with delusional disorder, erotomanic type, and started on risperidone. He showed little improvement and was transferred to another facility. This is the first identified case of social media triggering or exacerbating delusional disorder. We recommend increasing education on the ramifications of sharing personal information on social media.