Persecutory Delusions: a discussion on etiology, treatment, and possible link to post-traumatic stress disorder: A Case Report

Abstract

Delusions are defined as fixed beliefs that do not change even in the face of evidence that points to the contrary. As outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders V, delusions may take on themes such as persecutory, referential, somatic, religious, grandiose, and can even vary in terms of believability. This case report discusses a 39-year-old male patient with unspecified psychotic disorder and diabetes mellitus type I who endorses an elaborate persecutory delusion that has been present for several years. The report then delves into possible etiologies and therapy for delusions. Finally, a possible link between delusions causing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is explored.