Delusional Disorder
Article Sections
Introduction
Delusional disorder is characterized by persistent, false beliefs without the presence of other psychotic symptoms (eg, disorganized thoughts and behaviors, negative symptoms). Interpersonal and occupational functioning are usually intact apart from the impact of the delusion.
Epidemiology and risk factors
The estimated lifetime prevalence of delusional disorder is 0.05%-0.1%. Prevalence rates are similar in men and women, and onset is typically during middle adulthood (mid-30s to mid-40s).
Factors that may contribute to the risk for delusional disorder include genetic (eg, family history of paranoid personality disorder), psychologic (eg, social isolation, low self-esteem), and environmental (eg, language barrier, visual or hearing impairment).
Clinical presentation
Delusions are fixed, false beliefs that do not change even when met with contradictory evidence. They can be bizarre and clearly implausible (eg, belief that aliens removed internal organs) or nonbizarre (eg, terrorist group has hacked personal laptop). Common types of delusions include:
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