Delusional parasitosis (Ekbom Syndrome): A case report

Background: Ekbom syndrome or Delusional Parasitosis (DP) is an infrequent psychotic illness, where the patient has a false but firm and strong belief that his body is infested with parasites, worms, insects, or other organisms. This is a monothematic delusion of hallucinatory origin that typically affects older women. The aim: To report two cases of DP. Case report: The first patient presented a generalized sensation of parasite infestation following ischemic stroke. In the second case, the delusions of parasitosis were concentrated in the head only. Conclusion: Delusional parasitosis (DP) or Ekbom syndrome is an infrequent psychotic illness. Collaboration between dermatologists and psychiatrists is important in managing this rare disease. Neurologists must be aware of DP in patients with stroke.