Morgellons Disease

Research Paper # 113981

Morgellons Disease

A study of the etiology of Morgellons disease and its effects on the human integumentary and central nervous system (CNS).

1,758 words () | 4 sources | APA | 2007 United States

Paper Summary:

This paper examines whether Morgellons Disease is in fact a disease, or a somatoform disorder as proposed by the American Psychologists Association (DSM-IV-TR) clinical diagnosis. The writer explains that while many healthcare professionals dismiss Morgellons as a psychological disorder, a few practitioners believe that the true cause of the "disease" may be attributed to exposure to infectious agents found in the Lyme disease family. This paper researches Morgellons' etiology, symptoms, treatment and future medical avenues for improving the quality of life for Morgellons patients. A figure is included with the paper.

From the Paper:

"Morgellons is not considered to be fatal. There have, however, been reported cases of suicides where the patient could no longer bear the painful symptoms of Morgellons. The latest research regarding Morgellons disease shows that it may have a close affiliation with Lyme disease. Lyme disease was named after the towns of Old Lyme and Lyme Connecticut in 1975. The disease is transmitted by the bite of a tick which infuses the bacterium that causes the borrelia infection. The symptoms (fatigue and flu-like feelings) of Lyme disease closely parallel neurological symptoms of Morgellons disease. Doctors are able to rule out Lyme disease by checking for the presence of the antibodies of Lyme disease in the patient's blood. Many Morgellons sufferers often have clinical depression and cannot work at a job or feel greatly diminished in their capability to perform."

Sample of Sources Used:

Gregory, J. (2003). Sickened: A memoir of a Munchausen by proxy childhood. Bantam.
Hinkle, M. (2000). Delusory Parasitosis. American Entomologist, 46 (1), 17-25.
Savely, V., Leitao, M., & Stricker, R. (2006). The mystery of Morgellons disease: infection or delusion? American Journal Clinical Dermatology. 7 (1), 1-5.
Staninger, H. (2006, October). Far-Infrared Heat (FIR RH) Type Remediation for Mold and Other Unique Diseases. Paper presented at the NREP Annual Conference, Nashville, TN. Retrieved on 3/8/07 from: http://theuniversalseduction.com/articles/mystery-skin-disease-reporta-positive-treatment-for-morgellons