Treatments for primary delusional infestation

Abstract

Background: Primary delusional infestation (DI) is a primary psychiatric disorder characterised by delusions and abnormal tactile sensations. The pathophysiology is undecided and treatment includes both pharmacological and non-pharmacological options. There is currently no Cochrane Review of the treatments used. Primary DI is a diagnosis often encountered by both dermatologists and psychiatrists, with a large associated disease burden. Objectives: To evaluate the effectiveness of different treatments in primary delusional infestation (DI). Search methods: On 24 December 2014 and 19 March 2019, we searched the Cochrane Schizophrenia Group’s Study-Based Register of Trials including registries of clinical trials. Selection criteria: Randomised controlled trials involving the treatment of adults with primary DI. Data collection and analysis: Two review authors independently screened and assessed studies for inclusion using pre-specified inclusion criteria. Main results: We did not identify any studies for inclusion. Authors' conclusions: Currently there is no evidence from RCTs available to compare treatment of primary DI with placebo. We cannot, therefore, make any conclusions regarding the effects of treatments (pharmacological or non-pharmacological) for primary DI. This lack of evidence for treatment of primary DI has implications for research and practice. Robust randomised trials are indicated.