Formication

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
Founder, WikiMD Wellnesspedia &
W8MD's weight loss doctor NYC
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Formication
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Sensation of insects crawling on or under the skin
Complications	Delusional parasitosis, Anxiety, Sleep disturbance
Onset	Can occur at any age
Duration	Varies; can be transient or chronic
Types	N/A
Causes	Substance use disorder, Menopause, Parkinson's disease, Herpes zoster, Fibromyalgia, Lyme disease, Multiple sclerosis, Pesticide exposure, Alcohol withdrawal
Risks	Drug abuse, Chronic stress, Hormonal changes
Diagnosis	Clinical evaluation, Patient history, Physical examination
Differential diagnosis	Scabies, Dermatitis, Neuropathy
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Address underlying cause, Antihistamines, Antipsychotics, Cognitive behavioral therapy
Medication	Antidepressants, Anticonvulsants
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	Common in certain populations, such as those with substance use disorders
Deaths	N/A

A sensation of insects crawling on or under the skin

Formication is a specific type of tactile hallucination that involves the sensation of insects crawling on or under the skin. This phenomenon is often described as a feeling of "pins and needles" or "creepy-crawlies" and can be associated with a variety of medical conditions and psychological states.

Causes

Formication can be caused by several factors, including:

• Neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis or peripheral neuropathy.
• Substance use disorders, particularly with drugs such as methamphetamine or cocaine.
• Menopause, due to hormonal changes affecting the skin.
• Psychiatric conditions like delusional parasitosis or severe anxiety disorders.
• Skin conditions such as scabies or dermatitis.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of formication is the sensation of insects crawling on or under the skin. This can lead to:

• Intense itching or scratching.
• Skin lesions or sores from excessive scratching.
• Anxiety or distress due to the persistent sensation.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing formication involves a thorough medical history and physical examination. Healthcare providers may consider:

• Reviewing the patient's medication and substance use history.
• Conducting neurological examinations to rule out underlying disorders.
• Evaluating psychological health to identify any psychiatric conditions.

Treatment

Treatment for formication depends on the underlying cause. Options may include:

• Discontinuing or changing medications that may be causing the sensation.
• Treating any underlying skin conditions.
• Addressing substance use issues through rehabilitation programs.
• Providing psychological support or therapy for associated mental health conditions.

Prognosis

The prognosis for individuals experiencing formication varies based on the underlying cause. With appropriate treatment, many individuals can find relief from symptoms. However, chronic conditions may require ongoing management.

See also

• Tactile hallucination
• Delusional parasitosis
• Peripheral neuropathy
• Substance use disorder