Unusual conditions: delusional infestation: is it beyond psychological understanding and treatment? Time to rethink?

Abstract

Throughout their careers, and whether employed in public or private sectors, clinical psychologists will see clients who present with unusual, low prevalence conditions. One such condition is delusions of infestation (DI). We aim to inform mental health professionals about the nature of this condition by providing an overview of the symptoms and associated features of DI. We outline putative aetiological factors involved in the development of DI and then discuss the differential diagnoses that one needs to carefully consider when clients present with this condition. This article argues for the significant role of engagement, case formulation and psychological intervention for individuals exp..