ICD-10: F24

Overview of Shared Psychotic Disorder (ICD-10 Code F24)

Shared psychotic disorder, classified under ICD-10 code F24, is a rare psychiatric condition where two or more individuals share a delusional belief. This disorder typically occurs in close relationships, such as between family members or partners, where one person (the primary) has a well-established delusion, and the other (the secondary) adopts this belief, often due to their close association with the primary individual.

Clinical Features

1. Delusional Beliefs: The hallmark of shared psychotic disorder is the presence of a delusion that is shared between individuals. The primary individual usually has a more robust and well-formed delusion, while the secondary individual may have a less elaborate version of the same belief[1].

2. Duration: The shared delusions can persist as long as the individuals remain in close contact. If the secondary individual is separated from the primary, the delusional beliefs may diminish or resolve entirely[2].

3. Types of Delusions: The delusions can vary widely, encompassing themes such as persecution, grandeur, or bizarre beliefs. The nature of the delusion often reflects the primary individual's original beliefs[3].

4. Psychosocial Context: Shared psychotic disorder often arises in contexts of social isolation or extreme dependence, where the secondary individual may lack social support or independent thought processes[4].

Diagnosis Criteria

According to the ICD-10, the diagnosis of shared psychotic disorder (F24) requires:

• The presence of a delusion that is shared between two or more individuals.
• The delusion must be of a non-bizarre nature, meaning it could occur in real life, although it is not true.
• The secondary individual must not have a primary psychotic disorder that could explain the delusion independently[5].

Treatment Approaches

1. Separation: One of the most effective interventions is to separate the individuals involved. This often leads to a reduction in the shared delusion, particularly for the secondary individual[6].

2. Psychotherapy: Individual therapy can help the secondary individual regain their independent thought processes and address any underlying issues that may have contributed to their adoption of the delusion[7].

3. Medication: In some cases, antipsychotic medications may be prescribed, especially if the delusions are severe or if there are accompanying symptoms of distress or dysfunction[8].

4. Supportive Therapy: Providing support and education to both individuals can be beneficial, helping them understand the nature of the disorder and the importance of independent thinking[9].

Prognosis

The prognosis for shared psychotic disorder can vary. If the secondary individual is removed from the influence of the primary individual, they often experience a significant reduction in symptoms. However, if the underlying issues that contributed to the disorder are not addressed, there may be a risk of recurrence or the development of other psychiatric conditions[10].

Conclusion

Shared psychotic disorder (ICD-10 code F24) is a complex condition that highlights the interplay between social relationships and mental health. Understanding its clinical features, diagnostic criteria, and treatment options is crucial for effective management. Early intervention, particularly through separation and supportive therapy, can lead to positive outcomes for those affected by this disorder.

For further information or specific case studies, consulting psychiatric literature or mental health professionals specializing in psychotic disorders is recommended.

Shared psychotic disorder, classified under ICD-10 code F24, is a fascinating yet complex condition characterized by the transmission of delusional beliefs from one individual to another. This disorder is often referred to as "folie à deux," which translates to "madness for two." Below, we will explore the clinical presentation, signs, symptoms, and patient characteristics associated with this disorder.

Clinical Presentation

Definition and Overview

Shared psychotic disorder occurs when a person (the "primary") has a delusional belief that is shared with another individual (the "secondary"). The secondary individual typically has a close relationship with the primary, such as a family member or partner. The delusions can be of any type, but they are often bizarre or implausible in nature[1].

Onset and Duration

The onset of shared psychotic disorder can vary, often developing in the context of a close relationship where the secondary individual is highly influenced by the primary's delusions. The duration of the disorder is typically linked to the relationship dynamics and the treatment of the primary individual. If the primary's delusions are treated effectively, the secondary's symptoms may resolve as well[2].

Signs and Symptoms

Delusions

The hallmark of shared psychotic disorder is the presence of delusions. These can include:
- Paranoid delusions: Beliefs that one is being persecuted or conspired against.
- Grandiose delusions: Beliefs of having exceptional abilities, wealth, or fame.
- Somatic delusions: Beliefs related to bodily functions or sensations that are not based in reality[3].

Behavioral Changes

The secondary individual may exhibit changes in behavior that align with the delusional beliefs of the primary. This can include:
- Social withdrawal: Avoiding social interactions or activities that were previously enjoyed.
- Increased dependence: Relying heavily on the primary individual for emotional support and validation of beliefs.
- Adoption of the primary's beliefs: The secondary may begin to express or act on the delusions, demonstrating a clear alignment with the primary's thought patterns[4].

Emotional Disturbances

Both individuals may experience emotional disturbances, including:
- Anxiety: Heightened levels of anxiety related to the delusional beliefs.
- Depression: Feelings of hopelessness or sadness, particularly in the secondary individual as they may struggle with the implications of the shared delusions[5].

Patient Characteristics

Demographics

Shared psychotic disorder can occur in individuals of any age, but it is more commonly observed in adults. The disorder often arises in the context of close relationships, such as:
- Family members: Particularly in cases where one individual is a caregiver or has a dominant personality.
- Romantic partners: Relationships where one partner may be more susceptible to influence[6].

Psychological Profile

Individuals involved in shared psychotic disorder may have certain psychological characteristics:
- Vulnerability to psychosis: The secondary individual may have a predisposition to psychotic disorders, making them more susceptible to adopting the primary's delusions.
- Low self-esteem: The secondary may exhibit low self-worth, leading them to rely heavily on the primary for validation and support[7].

Social Context

The social environment plays a crucial role in the development of shared psychotic disorder. Factors such as:
- Isolation: Living in a socially isolated environment can exacerbate the condition, as the secondary individual may have limited exposure to alternative viewpoints.
- Stressful life events: Major life changes or stressors can trigger or intensify the delusional beliefs shared between the individuals[8].

Conclusion

Shared psychotic disorder (ICD-10 code F24) is a unique condition that highlights the interplay between individual psychology and interpersonal relationships. Understanding its clinical presentation, signs, symptoms, and patient characteristics is essential for effective diagnosis and treatment. Early intervention, particularly focusing on the primary individual's delusions, can lead to significant improvements for both individuals involved. If you suspect someone may be experiencing this disorder, it is crucial to seek professional mental health support to address the underlying issues and facilitate recovery.

Shared psychotic disorder, classified under ICD-10 code F24, is a fascinating and complex mental health condition. It is characterized by the transmission of delusional beliefs from one individual to another, typically within a close relationship. Below, we explore alternative names and related terms associated with this disorder.

Alternative Names for Shared Psychotic Disorder

1. Folie à Deux: This is perhaps the most recognized alternative name for shared psychotic disorder. The term is French for "madness for two," and it describes the phenomenon where two individuals share the same delusional beliefs. It can occur in various contexts, often involving a dominant partner who influences a more submissive individual[3].

2. Induced Psychosis: This term emphasizes the aspect of one person inducing psychotic symptoms in another. It highlights the relational dynamics that contribute to the development of shared delusions[3].

3. Shared Delusional Disorder: This name directly reflects the core feature of the condition—shared delusions. It is often used interchangeably with shared psychotic disorder in clinical settings[3].

4. Folie à Trois: This term extends the concept of folie à deux to three individuals. It describes situations where a delusional belief is shared among three people, although it is less common than the two-person variant[3].

5. Folie à Plusieurs: Similar to folie à trois, this term refers to shared psychotic experiences among multiple individuals, indicating that the phenomenon can occur in larger groups[3].

Related Terms and Concepts

1. Delusional Disorder: While not synonymous, delusional disorder (ICD-10 code F22) is related as it involves the presence of one or more delusions that persist for at least one month. Shared psychotic disorder can be seen as a specific subset of delusional disorder, where the delusions are shared between individuals[1].

2. Psychotic Disorders: This broader category includes various conditions characterized by impaired thoughts and perceptions, including schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder. Shared psychotic disorder can occur in the context of these disorders, particularly when one individual has a primary psychotic disorder that influences another[1][2].

3. Acute Psychotic Disorder: This term refers to a sudden onset of psychotic symptoms, which may or may not be shared. It is important to differentiate between acute episodes and the more chronic nature of shared psychotic disorder[4].

4. Paranoid Psychosis: This term may be used when the shared delusions involve paranoid themes. It highlights the specific content of the delusions rather than the relational aspect of the disorder[1].

5. Psychotic Spectrum Disorders: This term encompasses a range of disorders that include psychotic symptoms, providing a broader context for understanding where shared psychotic disorder fits within the spectrum of mental health conditions[1].

Conclusion

Shared psychotic disorder, or folie à deux, is a unique mental health condition that illustrates the profound impact of interpersonal relationships on psychological well-being. Understanding its alternative names and related terms can enhance awareness and facilitate better communication among healthcare professionals and those affected by the disorder. If you have further questions or need more detailed information about this condition, feel free to ask!

Shared psychotic disorder, classified under ICD-10 code F24, is a rare condition where two or more individuals share a delusional belief. This disorder is often seen in close relationships, such as between family members or partners, where one person (the primary) has a delusional disorder, and the other (the secondary) adopts the delusion. Understanding the diagnostic criteria for F24 is essential for accurate identification and treatment.

Diagnostic Criteria for Shared Psychotic Disorder (F24)

The diagnosis of shared psychotic disorder is primarily based on clinical assessment and the following criteria:

1. Presence of a Delusion

• The primary individual must have a well-defined delusion that is persistent and not attributable to another mental disorder. This delusion is typically bizarre or implausible, and it significantly impacts the secondary individual's thoughts and behaviors.

2. Adoption of the Delusion

• The secondary individual must adopt the delusion of the primary individual. This adoption occurs in the context of a close relationship, where the secondary person is influenced by the primary's beliefs.

3. Duration of the Relationship

• The shared delusion typically occurs in the context of a long-standing relationship, which facilitates the transfer of the delusional belief from one individual to another. The duration of the relationship can vary, but it is often significant enough to allow for the development of shared beliefs.

4. Exclusion of Other Disorders

• The diagnosis requires that the delusions are not better explained by another mental disorder, such as schizophrenia or a mood disorder with psychotic features. This means that the delusions must be distinct and not part of a broader psychotic condition.

5. Impact on Functioning

• The shared delusion must lead to significant impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning for the secondary individual. This impairment can manifest in various ways, including withdrawal from social interactions or difficulties in maintaining employment.

Additional Considerations

• Cultural Context: It is important to consider cultural factors when diagnosing shared psychotic disorder, as certain beliefs may be culturally accepted and not indicative of a mental disorder.
• Clinical Assessment: A thorough clinical assessment, including interviews and possibly psychological testing, is crucial for accurate diagnosis. Mental health professionals often rely on structured interviews to evaluate the presence of delusions and the dynamics of the relationship between the individuals involved.

Conclusion

Shared psychotic disorder (F24) is a complex condition that requires careful evaluation to ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Understanding the criteria for diagnosis helps clinicians differentiate it from other psychotic disorders and provides a framework for effective intervention. If you suspect someone may be experiencing this disorder, it is essential to seek professional help for a comprehensive assessment and support.

Shared psychotic disorder, classified under ICD-10 code F24, is a rare condition where a person develops a delusion that is influenced by someone else who has an established delusional belief. This disorder often occurs in close relationships, such as between family members or partners, and can lead to significant distress and impairment in functioning. Understanding the standard treatment approaches for this condition is crucial for effective management.

Overview of Shared Psychotic Disorder

Shared psychotic disorder, also known as folie à deux, involves two individuals sharing the same delusional belief. The primary individual (the "inducer") typically has a well-established psychotic disorder, while the secondary individual (the "induced") adopts the delusion without having a primary psychotic disorder themselves. Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying delusions and the dynamics of the relationship between the individuals involved.

Standard Treatment Approaches

1. Psychiatric Evaluation and Diagnosis

The first step in treating shared psychotic disorder is a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation. This assessment helps to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other mental health conditions. Clinicians typically use structured interviews and standardized diagnostic tools to gather information about the individuals' mental health history, symptoms, and the nature of their relationship[1].

2. Individual and Family Therapy

Therapeutic interventions often include both individual and family therapy. Individual therapy focuses on the secondary individual to help them regain their independent thought processes and challenge the delusional beliefs. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is particularly effective in this context, as it helps individuals identify and modify distorted thinking patterns[2].

Family therapy can also be beneficial, especially in addressing the dynamics that contribute to the shared delusion. This approach encourages open communication and helps family members understand the nature of the disorder, fostering a supportive environment for recovery[3].

3. Medication Management

While medication is not always the primary treatment for shared psychotic disorder, it may be necessary, especially if the primary individual has a diagnosed psychotic disorder. Antipsychotic medications can help manage symptoms of delusions and psychosis. The choice of medication should be tailored to the individual's specific needs and any co-occurring mental health conditions[4].

4. Crisis Intervention

In cases where the delusions lead to dangerous behavior or significant distress, crisis intervention may be required. This can involve hospitalization to ensure the safety of both individuals and to provide intensive treatment. During hospitalization, healthcare providers can closely monitor the individuals and implement a structured treatment plan[5].

5. Education and Support

Educating both individuals about the disorder is crucial for recovery. Providing information about the nature of shared psychotic disorder, its causes, and treatment options can empower both individuals to engage in their recovery actively. Support groups may also be beneficial, offering a space for individuals to share experiences and coping strategies[6].

Conclusion

Shared psychotic disorder (ICD-10 code F24) requires a multifaceted treatment approach that includes psychiatric evaluation, individual and family therapy, medication management, crisis intervention, and education. By addressing both the psychological and relational aspects of the disorder, treatment can help individuals regain their autonomy and improve their overall mental health. Early intervention and a supportive therapeutic environment are key to successful outcomes in managing this complex condition.

For further information or specific case management strategies, consulting with a mental health professional experienced in psychotic disorders is recommended.