Ekbom Syndrome: A Case Study

This case study examines the diagnosis, treatment, and management of a 42-year-old female patient presenting with delusional parasitosis, also known as Ekbom syndrome. The patient experienced severe itching, crawling sensations, and self-inflicted skin lesions due to her persistent belief in parasitic infestation despite negative medical test results. The patient was referred to a psychiatrist after a dermatology consultation and was diagnosed with Ekbom syndrome. Treatment involved antipsychotic medication (aripiprazole) and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which led to a decrease in symptom intensity and improved patient insight. The study highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to diagnosing and treating delusional parasitosis, emphasizing the need for early referral to a psychiatrist and the effectiveness of combined therapy in managing symptoms.