A case of Shared Psychotic Disorder with Deadly Outcome

Abstract

Shared psychotic disorder also known as folie a dues is thought to occur in persons who live close together, so that delusions of the primarily ill patient are transferred to the partner. A case of shared paranoid psychotic disorder, with primary diagnosis of persecutory delusional disorder in the husband is described. The delusion and its consequent safety behaviors were so strong that led to the family complete isolation, ceasing their relationship with the external world, gradual starvation and death of the daughter. This case showed how one's mind can act so badly against itself to the extend of starvation and dying. We think it is the most tragedy case report of shared psychotic disorder.Iran J Med Sci 2006; 31(2): 115-117. Keywords ● Paranoid ● delusion ● shared psychotic disorder