Gender differences in the young-onset persistent delusional disorder.

Abstract

We conducted a retrospective chart review to examine the gender differences in young onset Persistent Delusional Disorder (PDD) subjects (N=236) with onset of illness before the age of 30 years. Gender differences in marital and employment status were significant (p-0.001). Delusion of infidelity and erotomania were more common in females, while males had more body dysmorphic and persecutory delusions (X2-20.45, p-0.009). Males had more substance dependence (X2-21.31, p<0.001), as well as a family history of substance abuse and PDD (X2-18.5, p<0.01). To conclude, gender differences in PDD comprised some psychopathology, co-morbidity, and family history among those with young onset PDD.