EKBOM SYNDROME (DELUSIONAL PARASITOSIS): A 9 YEAR LONG CASE REPORT

Area of Science:

• Psychodermatology
• Psychiatry
• Case Study Analysis

Background:

• Delusional Parasitosis (DP), or Ekbom Syndrome, is a rare condition involving a false belief of infestation.
• Patients with DP often resist psychiatric care, complicated by identity factors like professional roles.
• This report details a 9-year longitudinal case of a psychotherapist with DP.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the ethical and therapeutic implications of professional identity in psychosis.
• To examine sustained psychiatric engagement in treatment-resistant DP.
• To highlight individualized care in chronic psychodermatological conditions.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective case analysis of a 58-year-old female psychotherapist with DP.
• Incorporated clinical observations and interdisciplinary input.
• Reviewed current literature on DP and psychosis.

Main Results:

• The patient displayed classic DP symptoms and underwent various antipsychotic trials with mixed results.
• Her professional identity as a mental health provider created challenges in insight, ethics, and therapeutic alliance.
• A longitudinal therapeutic relationship was maintained via multidisciplinary strategies and adapted communication.

Conclusions:

• Sustained psychiatric engagement is possible in treatment-resistant DP.
• Individualized care is crucial when professional identity intersects with psychosis.
• The case informs interdisciplinary management and therapeutic alliance in chronic psychodermatological conditions.