Morgellon disease: A case report

Abstract

Background

Morgellons disease is a delusional disorder that leads to the belief that one has parasites or foreign material moving in, or coming out of, the skin. The name was coined in 2002 by Mary Leitao; a mother who rejected the medical diagnosis of her son's delusional parasitosis. She revived it from a letter written by a physician in the mid-1600s.

Objective

In this case report, we aim to describe the clinical characteristics and manifestation of morgellon disease in 26 years man.

Results and discussion

Bulgarian athlete of 26 years stopped to be actively involved with the sport after a severe contusion to the right knee during the race. Had a joint surgery in the Netherlands and of course when that will not be able to compete more professional sports began to use cannabinoids daily. After three months patient went to dermatologist because of skin rashes and intense itching, crawling sensation on and under the skin. The patient reported that pull out threads from his skin. Dermatologist Initiated treatment with antibiotic creams and corticosteroids. The symptoms persist and the patient has consulted a psychiatrist regarding appeared complaints of fatigue, poor concentration and increased anxiety. Psychiatrist based on clinical and medical history was diagnosed morgellon disease. We started treatment with risperidone in increasing doses up to 2 mg/day. After a month the patient has a significant reduction of symptoms.

Conclusion

Morgellons disease is a little-known disorder that is often associated with non-specific skin, nerve, and psychiatric symptoms.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.