ClinQuiz: Increase your zoonotic parasite prowess, answer 5A
5) A–Correct.
This client's concern is consistent with delusions of parasitosis, a condition in which people develop pruritus that they erroneously believe is associated with parasites; self-excoriation often follows.22 Dermatologic examinations and diagnostic tests in these individuals fail to reveal evidence of an infestation or other etiologic explanation, and out of frustration, clients may enlist the aid of their veterinarians. Although an explanation for the condition is not always reached in affected people, allergic reactions, drug interactions, and hormonal imbalances are sometimes identified, which, when corrected, allow the condition to subside.22