Delusional Disorder

Delusional disorder is a psychotic disorder characterized by the presence of one or more non-bizarre delusions persisting for at least one month without prominent hallucinations or disorganized behavior. Etiology involves genetic susceptibility, neurobiological dysregulation of dopaminergic pathways, and psychosocial stressors. Clinically, patients demonstrate firmly held false beliefs, often related to persecutory, jealous, somatic, or grandiose themes, while maintaining relative functional ability outside the delusional context. Diagnosis requires exclusion of schizophrenia, mood disorders with psychotic features, and medical or substance-induced conditions. Management includes antipsychotic medication, psychotherapy focusing on insight and coping strategies, and support for functional impairments. Prognosis is variable, with early intervention improving social and occupational functioning and reducing the risk of chronicity.