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Delusional disorder is characterized by the presence of irrational, untrue
DSM-IV Diagnostic Criteria
Non-bizarre delusions have lasted for at least one
This disorder is characterized by the absence of hallucinations, disorganized speech, grossly disorganized or catatonic behavior or negative symptoms of schizophrenia (tactile or olfactory hallucinations may be present if
Behavior and functioning are not significantly bizarre or impaired.
If mood episodes have occurred, the total duration of mood pathology is brief compared to the duration of the delusions.
Clinical Features
The presence of a non-bizarre delusion is the cardinal feature of this disorder (ie, the delusion must be plausible).
Patient=s thought processes and thought content are normal except when discussing the specific delusion.
Hallucinations are not prominent unless it is of the somatic type. Cognition and sensorium are intact.
There is generally no disturbance of thought processes, such as loosening of associations or tangentiality.
The insight of patients into their illness is generally poor, and this disorder may cause significant impairment in social and occupational functioning delusonal.
Epidemiology
Delusional disorder is uncommon, with prevalence of 0.03%.
Mean age of onset is in the forties; however, age of onset is highly variable. The incidence in males and females appears equal.
Classification
Persecutory Type. Involves that the individual is being harassed.
Somatic Type. Involves of a physical deficit or medical condition.
Erotomanic Type. Involves that another
Substance Induced Psychotic Disorder
Symptoms may be identical if the