Delusional Parasitosis in a Patient With a History of COVID-19 and Substance Use Disorder.

Abstract

Delusional parasitosis is a psychotic disorder that manifests as a belief that the skin is infested with parasites. This case report documents the association between COVID-19 infection and new-onset delusional parasitosis superimposed on preexisting psychosis, which has not been previously documented in the current literature. A 28-year-old male presented with new-onset delusional parasitosis superimposed on existing psychosis following COVID-19 infection. Computed tomography scan of the head was unremarkable. He was treated with olanzapine, which appeared to lessen the intensity of the delusions. This case report should encourage increased monitoring of COVID-positive patients with psychosis.