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Perceived Conjunctival Foreign Material Egress in Morgellons Disease: A Case Study
Sean Ghiam1, Badal Sojitra2, Collin Reiff3
1Sackler School of Medicine, New York State/American Program of Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
Case Reports in Psychiatry
|May 20, 2024
Summary
This case report details a 63-year-old man with a 15-year history of perceived foreign bodies in his eyes, a rare ophthalmic presentation of Morgellons disease. Despite extensive negative investigations, the patient
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Dermatology
- Neurology
Background:
- Morgellons disease is a complex, poorly understood condition with unclear etiology.
- Ophthalmic manifestations of Morgellons disease are rare and present diagnostic challenges.
Observation:
- A 63-year-old male presented with a 15-year history of foreign body sensation and egress from the eyes.
- The patient exhibited the 'matchbox sign' and reported symptoms initiated by facial trauma.
- Multiple ophthalmic examinations and imaging (MRI, radiographs) revealed no objective foreign bodies.
Findings:
- Despite extensive negative findings, the patient's symptoms are consistent with Morgellons disease.
- Gabapentin trial for neuropathic symptoms was ineffective.
- The case underscores the diagnostic difficulty in Morgellons disease, especially ocular presentations.
Implications:
- Emphasizes the need for empathetic patient interaction and trust-building in managing complex conditions.
- Highlights the potential psychological distress associated with Morgellons disease and the importance of mental health support.
- Suggests a multidisciplinary approach may be necessary for patients with Morgellons disease.
