Ekbom Syndrome in an intravenous methylphenidate abuser

Authors

  • César Pereiro Gómez Enviar correspondencia a: César Pereiro Gómez. Unidad Asistencial de Drogodependencias de A Coruña. Calle Ermita 2ª (Polígono de A Grela). 15008 A Coruña
  • Javier Vicente-Alba Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de A Coruña.
  • Alberto Ramos-Caneda Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de A Coruña.
  • Carlos Vázquez Ventoso Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de A Coruña.
  • Eva Fontela-Vivanco Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de A Coruña.
  • Juan Carlos Díaz del Valle Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de A Coruña.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.20882/adicciones.80

Keywords:

Ekbom, parasitosis, infestation, delusion, methylphenidate

Abstract

Ekbom syndrome is a mental disorder in which the patient has the mono- thematic delusion of being infected by parasites. It is an uncommon condition that was initially studied by dermatologists. The exactly etiology is unknown to date, though several causes have been proposed, including metabolic diseases (among other physical causes), psychiatric disorders, drugs, etc. Research has now found a relationship between drug abuse and psychotic symptoms, which appear to be due to altered levels of dopamine at the receptor level. In this article we review the clinical features of the condition and present the case report of an intravenous methylphenidate abuser who developed a delusion of parasitosis.

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Published

2012-12-01

Issue

Vol. 24 No. 4 (2012)

Section

Originals