A Case of Delusional Parasitosis Secondary to Severe Iron Deficiency Anemia in a Tertiary Care Hospital: An Area for Clinical Vigilance

    June 2024 in “ Journal of Psychiatry Spectrum ”
    Keya Das, S. Nandhana, Sujith Babu Kallan, Vignesh Ramachandran, Swapna Bondade
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    TLDR Iron deficiency can cause psychiatric symptoms that improve with proper treatment.
    A 62-year-old woman with severe iron deficiency anemia presented with delusional parasitosis, characterized by a belief of worm infestation, leading to hair loss and other symptoms. Her condition improved significantly after treatment with haloperidol and iron supplementation, highlighting the importance of considering nutritional deficiencies as reversible causes of psychiatric symptoms. This case underscores the need for clinical vigilance in detecting and treating such conditions, especially in the elderly.
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      in Treatment  8 upvotes 6 years ago
      The user experienced hair loss due to undiagnosed anemia and has been taking iron and vitamin D3 supplements, which improved their energy levels but not hair regrowth. They are seeking advice on additional treatments or steps to restore hair after iron deficiency anemia.

      community Low iron and hair loss connection

      in Female  17 upvotes 1 year ago
      A 39-year-old woman noticed hair thinning and found she has an iron deficiency, which may be linked to hair loss. Suggestions included seeing a dermatologist, using spironolactone, and minoxidil.

      community Iron, Anemia, DNA testing, and bloodwork

      in Research/Science  2 upvotes 3 weeks ago
      The conversation discusses personal experiences with hair loss and highlights the potential impact of anemia and nutrient deficiencies on hair health. Treatments mentioned include changing shampoo/conditioner, taking MSM, collagen, hyaluronic acid, astaxanthin, B12, folate, and bovine blood capsules.

      community Any growth (been taking iron supplements)

      in Is this regrowth? 2 months ago
      The conversation discusses hair loss treatments, focusing on iron supplements for low ferritin levels and considering finasteride and minoxidil if thinning persists. There is debate over starting with finasteride versus dutasteride, with some users advocating for dutasteride due to its potency, while others caution about potential side effects.

      community Please take a vitamin & hormone test

      in Chat  255 upvotes 10 months ago
      Checking vitamin and hormone levels is important for addressing hair loss, as deficiencies in vitamin D, zinc, and iron can affect hair growth. Treatments like finasteride, minoxidil, and vitamin supplements are used, but addressing deficiencies is crucial for effectiveness.

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