Brief Descriptions of Some Common Medically Significant Arthropods Related to Delusional Infestation

Nearly all DI patients describe bizarre parasites and their behaviors. This can be baffling for attending physicians because few have had training in medical entomology. This chapter addresses this deficit by providing information on arthropods (insects and arachnids) of medical importance. The focus is on arthropods of temperate North America, but many are also found worldwide. The chapter is designed for physicians as they work with DI patients in real time. There are clear images of each arthropod along with information on geographical distribution, life cycle, behavior, and medical importance. Supplemental information which includes addressing urban myths are included in the “Boxes.” Information is written in short sentences for quick reading. Additional information is provided as cited journal literature.