A case report highlighting the growing trend of Internet-based self-diagnosis of "Morgellon's disease"

J La State Med Soc. 2013 Nov-Dec;165(6):334-6.

Abstract

"Morgellon's Disease" is a term used to describe a bizarre condition characterized by the belief that strange sensations in the skin are due to filaments called "Morgellon's Bodies."' The focus of this case report is to inform readers of the growing incidence of this psychosomatic condition. Unfortunately, self-diagnosis has become increasingly common because of the widespread coverage on the Internet. While the validity of the diagnosis is in question, the impact on patient's lives is real, often debilitating, and bears more examination.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Consumer Health Information / methods
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Internet*
  • Morgellons Disease / diagnosis*
  • Psychophysiologic Disorders / diagnosis*
  • Psychotic Disorders / diagnosis*
  • Psychotic Disorders / drug therapy