Author(s): Eliana Almeida, Francisco Cunha, David Teixeira, Elsa Monteiro and Sandra Borges

Abstract: Morgellons disease is a rare and controversial condition characterized by self-reported cutaneous fibers, pruritus, and systemic complaints such as fatigue, cognitive decline, and mood disturbances. Its classification remains debated: some authors propose an infectious etiology, particularly Lyme disease, while others consider it a variant of delusional infestation. We present the case of an 89-year-old institutionalized woman with mixed dementia who developed persecutory and somatic complaints, including the belief of “wires” emerging from her body. No cutaneous lesions were found on dermatological examination. Neuroimaging revealed frontotemporal atrophy and periventricular ischemic leukoencephalopathy. Risperidone and quetiapine were poorly tolerated due to sedation and gait instability, whereas olanzapine combined with memantine achieved partial improvement. This case illustrates the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges of Morgellons-like delusions in elderly patients with neurocognitive disorders. A narrative review is provided to contextualize current knowledge, highlighting the lack of consensus on etiology and treatment. Greater awareness of Morgellons disease and its overlap with delusional infestation may improve clinical recognition and management, particularly in vulnerable populations such as the elderly with dementia.

DOI: 10.22271/27080056.2025.v7.i2c.152

Pages: 135-138 | Views: 101 | Downloads: 30

Download Full Article: Click Here