Capgras Syndrome

- First described: 1923
- Founders: Joseph Capgras, Jean Reboul-Lachaux
- More prevalent in women than men
- Sufferers may also mistake pets or objects for impostors
- Famous suffer: Tony Rosato
- Abnormally prevalent in Maori people of New Zealand

Sufferers of Capgras syndrome, also known as Capgras delusion, believe that a person or people close to them have been replaced with duplicates. In some cases, the afflicted may doubt their own identity, and question whether they, in whole or in part, have been replaced with an impostor.
Although the syndrome is most common among schizophrenics, it can also occur as a result of a severe brain injury or dementia, and its effects may be acute, chronic, or transient. Unlike the delusions associated with schizophrenia, people who suffer from Capgras do not believe that the impostors are out to get them, but they also cannot explain why their loved one has been replaced.
The delusions center around one of the senses—most often sight—and remain localized to that one sense. For example, a man afflicted with Capgras may recognize his wife's voice on the phone, yet believe her to be an impostor upon seeing her in person.
Drug Treatments
- Antipsychotics (typical and atypical)
- Pimozide
- Risperidone
- Clozapine
Disclaimer

The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your doctor for information on Capgras syndrome.

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Capgras Syndrome Questions
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Capgras Syndrome News
- The New York Times: When a ‘Duplicate’ Family Moves In (September 11, 2007)
  - "My patient suffered from a variation of Capgras syndrome, in which people are replaced by inexact duplicates. It has been considered rare, but the more I work with geriatric patients, the more I am diagnosing it."
- CBC News: 'Someone's trying to murder me,' former comic tells court (August 8, 2007)
- Pittsburg Post-Gazette: Victims of Capgras syndrome often cannot recognize... (September 23, 2003)
- Medscape Today: Capgras Syndrome Related to Diazepam Treatment (March 8, 2004)
Therapy
- Psychotherapy