MORGELLONS

http://www.thenmo.org/

Morgellons disease is a skin disorder that was first described over 300 years ago. The disease is characterized by fiber-like strands extruding from the skin in association with dermatologic and neuropsychiatric signs and symptoms.

Although Morgellons disease has been confused with delusional parasitosis, the occurrence of the disease in children, the lack of pre-existing psychopathology in most patients and the presence of subcutaneous fibers on skin biopsy indicate that the disease has a somatic origin.

The association with Lyme disease and the apparent response to antibiotic therapy supports the concept that Morgellons disease may be triggered by an infectious process. Recent studies suggest that infection with Agrobacterium may play a role in the disease. Further clinical and molecular research is needed to unlock the mystery of Morgellons disease.

Lesions and scars caused by Morgellons

Morgellons Disease

http://www.eblue.org/article/PIIS0190962207001958/fulltext

ABC News Report

http://abcnews.go.com/Primetime/Story?id=2283503&page=1

Am J Clin Dermatol. 2006;7(1):1-5.

The mystery of Morgellons disease: infection or delusion?

Savely VR, Leitao MM, Stricker RB.

South Austin Family Practice Clinic, Austin, Texas, USA.

Abstract

Morgellons disease is a mysterious skin disorder that was first described more than 300 years ago. The disease is characterized by fiber-like strands extruding from the skin in conjunction with various dermatologic and neuropsychiatric symptoms. In this respect, Morgellons disease resembles and may be confused with delusional parasitosis. The association with Lyme disease and the apparent response to antibacterial therapy suggest that Morgellons disease may be linked to an undefined infectious process. Further clinical and molecular research is needed to unlock the mystery of Morgellons disease.

PMID: 16489838 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]