In fear of the most loved ones. A comprehensive review on Capgras misidentification phenomenon and case report involving attempted murder under Capgras syndrome in a relapse of a schizophrenia spectrum disorder.

Publication date: Available online 31 May 2019Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal MedicineAuthor(s): Maria Valeria Karakasi, Maria Markopoulou, Maria Alexandri, Athanasios Douzenis, Pavlos PavlidisAbstractThe present paper aims to describe a case of a schizophrenia spectrum disorder relapse leading to attempted murder, review literature, and investigate the epidemiological data and expression of violent behavior among Capgras-related incidents. 109 case reports deriving from various scientific areas dating from 1971 to 2017 were evaluated and juxtaposed with an equivalent comparison group of random psychiatry inpatients, who were examined for the same variables. Quantitative and qualitative differences were observed between samples. High level of interpersonal violence was disclosed among Capgras-related incidents, especially towards the main care-givers, with higher propensity among male patients. Homicidal behavior was also expressed in higher levels among male patients experiencing the Capgras delusion. A multidisciplinary approach is vital for the optimal management of these incidents. Further research on the pathophysiology of Capgras delusion with the utilization of functional imaging techniques is of exceptional significance for the understanding of issues of neuroscience.
Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine - Category: Forensic Medicine Source Type: research