Ekbom's syndrome,

Ekbom's syndrome, also called parasitic insanity, is an example of a hypochondriac delusional disorder. The sick persons believe in the presence of parasites in the skin and complain of symptoms such as burning and itching.

Other symptoms of Ekbom's syndrome include the sensation of biting the epidermis by worms and visual hallucinations, for example seeing insects on the skin. 

Sick persons try to get rid of them at all costs. They scratch the skin, using insecticides, use washing and cleaning procedures. As a result there are secondary skin problems, among others: wounds, seeking help from dermatologists and insect control specialists.

There are many possible causes of parasitic insanity. The etiology of the disorder has not been discovered. However, it can be seen that Ekbom's syndrome is associated with various mental or somatic disorders such as schizophrenia, organic brain diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, the usage of psychoactive substances such as amphetamines, cocaine and methylphenidate, alcoholism, metabolic disorders, hypertension and post-stroke condition.

Parasitic insanity requires treatment with antipsychotic drugs. If a patient develops bacterial skin infections as a result of scratching, it is necessary to use topical antibiotics, and in case of very extensive lesions, also oral antibiotics.

In case of organic disease of the brain it is not possible to help. If there is a problem of alcoholism or schizophrenia, one of the key factors is the patient's motivation and willingness to cooperate. Unfortunately, patients are deprived of insight and cannot look at their disease objectively. They often undertake short-term treatment and resign from the long-term one.