INTRODUCTION:

In delusional misidentification syndromes (DMSs), the individual everlastingly misidentifies persons, places, objects, or events. Capgras syndrome (CS) is the most common in the umbrella term DMS. Capgras syndrome is named after Joseph Capgras, a French psychiatrist who, with a colleague, first described the disorder in 1923. It is one of several conditions classified as delusional misidentification syndromes (DMSs).¹

Meaning:

Capgras syndrome is a psychological condition. It’s also known as “imposter syndrome” or “Capgras delusion.” People who experience this syndrome will have an irrational belief that someone they know or recognize has been replaced by an imposter. More common in women than men with a sex ratio of approximately 2:1.¹

Causes:

Exact cause of Capgras syndrome is unknown,

· Injury to the brain.

· Traumatic lesions on the brain

· Disconnect between the visual part of the brain and the area that processes facial familiarity.

· Dementia or Alzheimer’s disease

· Schizophrenia and epilepsy are also believed to be potential causes or co-occurring conditions.

· Capgras syndrome that was related to hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid gland, so hormonal imbalances may also be a risk factor.

· large amounts of recreational drugs or alcohol

· vitamin B12 deficiency

· migraine

· hepatic encephalopathy²

Symptoms:

· Delusional denial of identity of a significant other

· Anxiety , spatial disorientation ,memory changes

· Anger, and arguments between the person affected and those around them.

· Suspiciousness

· Affect individual and family functioning

· Impairs daily activities Bottom of Form

· Defend irrational belief¹

Treatment:

There is no prescribed treatment plan for people with Capgras syndrome because more research needs to be done. But there are treatment options that may help relieve the symptoms.

Treatments for underlying conditions vary widely, but may include:

· Antipsychotics, antidepressants, anxiolytics

· psychotherapy-cognitive behavior therapy, reminiscence therapy

· Surgery

· Memory and recognition medications

· Surgery, if possible, for brain lesions or head trauma

In some cases, validation therapy may be useful. Validation therapy focuses on someone accepting the misidentification to help them relax and reduce anxiety. In other cases, caregivers and facilities may actively attempt to ground the person in reality, as far as they can, by giving frequent reminders of the time and place.²

Some general tips for caring for someone with Capgras syndrome include:

· Being patient and sympathizing, as Capgras syndrome can cause real fear and anxiety.

· Limiting exposure to the “imposter” when an episode is taking place.

· Having the “imposter” speak before they are seen, as their voice may be recognized.

· Acknowledging the feelings surrounding the identity confusion when they occur.

· Not arguing with the person about the “imposter” they think they are seeing.²

CONCLUSION:

Capgras can contribute to complicated quality of life for people with dementia and their caregivers.²

REFERENCES:

1. https://www.intechopen.com/online-first/what-is-capgras-syndrome-diagnosis-and-treatment-approach

2. https://parkinsonsdisease.net/clinical/capgras-syndrome/

3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2781046/

Received on 31.08.2020 Modified on 14.10.2020

Int. J. Nur. Edu. and Research. 2021; 9(1):113-114.

DOI: 10.5958/2454-2660.2021.00028.4