Erotomania
Erotomania, also known as de Clérambault's syndrome, is a rare psychiatric condition characterized by the delusional belief that a person, often a stranger or a high-status individual, is passionately in love with them. The afflicted individual firmly believes in this romantic interest, despite little to no evidence supporting their claim[1].
Classification and Symptoms[edit | edit source]
Erotomania is classified under the category of Delusional disorder, a type of serious mental illness known as psychosis. This condition is characterized by one or more delusions with a duration of one month or longer, without any other psychotic symptomatology. The primary symptom of erotomania is the delusional conviction of being loved by another individual, which is often accompanied by obsessive behaviors and attempts to contact the object of their delusion[2].
Etiology and Risk Factors[edit | edit source]
The exact cause of erotomania remains unclear, but it's often associated with structural brain abnormalities, particularly in the frontal and temporal lobes. Risk factors may include a history of head trauma, substance abuse, or family history of psychotic disorders. It is more commonly diagnosed in females and often appears in late adolescence or early adulthood[3].
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Diagnosis is typically based on the individual's history and clinical presentation. As erotomania is a type of delusional disorder, it can be challenging to diagnose, primarily because patients firmly believe in their delusions and may appear normal when their delusions aren't discussed. Differential diagnosis includes other psychiatric disorders that involve delusions, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or borderline personality disorder[4].
Treatment[edit | edit source]
The treatment of erotomania primarily involves the use of antipsychotic medications, which can help manage delusions and obsessive behaviors. Psychotherapy may also be beneficial but can be challenging due to the patient's firm belief in their delusion. In severe cases or those unresponsive to treatment, hospitalization may be necessary to ensure the safety of the patient and the person they are fixated on[5].
References[edit | edit source]
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