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Chapter 33: Morgellons Disease

DOI:

10.1891/9780826124876.0033

Authors

  • Gartner, Ashley

Abstract

Morgellons disease is a mysterious, poorly understood condition characterized by nonhealing skin lesions, fibrous growths protruding from the skin, and subcutaneous stinging sensations. These dermatological symptoms are frequently accompanied by mood fluctuations, sleep disturbance, fatigue, joint pain, and hair and weight loss. Additionally, some individuals with these symptoms also report cognitive decline, often described as “brain fog”. Currently, there are no established treatments for Morgellons disease. Its physiological and biological bases are not completely known. It is possible that such patients may have symptoms related to somatization as well as a disease process. Hypnotherapy is a promising treatment for symptoms associated with Morgellons disease. While research on hypnosis for treating Morgellons disease is limited, hypnosis has been reported to reduce comorbid symptoms of depression and anxiety, as well as to improve sleep and reduce stress, and may provide some relief for patients with symptoms of Morgellons disease.