Capgras syndrome in clinical settings: an integrative review of case reports

Authors

  • Amanda Ferreira Gonçalves Graduanda, Terapia Ocupacional, Universidade Federal do Triângulo Mineiro, Uberaba, MG, Brasil https://orcid.org/0009-0007-3824-6902
  • José Humberto Alves Doutorando, Educação Física, PPGEF, Epidemiologia da Atividade Física, Universidade Federal do Triângulo Mineiro, UFTM, Uberaba, MG, Brasil https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0573-230X
  • Andrea Ruzzi-Pereira Professora Associada, Departamento de Terapia Ocupacional, Universidade Federal do Triângulo Mineiro, UFTM, Uberaba, MG, Brasil https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6014-0468

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25118/2763-9037.2026.v16.1557

Keywords:

mental disorders, mental health, Capgras syndrome

Abstract

Introduction: Delusional identification syndromes significantly impair the ability to recognize familiar people, objects, or places. Objective: To analyze, through case reports, the therapeutic strategies employed in the management of delusional identification syndromes, with an emphasis on Capgras Syndrome, the explanatory hypotheses adopted, the associated etiological and diagnostic contexts, as well as the complementary methods used in characterizing the disorder. Method: This is an integrative review of 11 case reports, evaluated according to CARE guidelines. Results: The etiology was multifactorial (psychotic, neurodegenerative, traumatic). Explanatory hypotheses were based on neurocognitive and psychodynamic models. Therapeutic management was guided by the etiology, combining pharmacotherapy (antipsychotics, with clozapine in resistant cases) and psychosocial interventions. Diagnostic investigation required a multimodal approach, including neuroimaging, toxicological tests, and clinical scales. Conclusion: Effective management requires an integrated approach, targeting the underlying cause, combining specific treatment, psychosocial support, and ongoing investigation.

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Author Biographies

Amanda Ferreira Gonçalves, Graduanda, Terapia Ocupacional, Universidade Federal do Triângulo Mineiro, Uberaba, MG, Brasil

José Humberto Alves , Doutorando, Educação Física, PPGEF, Epidemiologia da Atividade Física, Universidade Federal do Triângulo Mineiro, UFTM, Uberaba, MG, Brasil

Andrea Ruzzi-Pereira, Professora Associada, Departamento de Terapia Ocupacional, Universidade Federal do Triângulo Mineiro, UFTM, Uberaba, MG, Brasil

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Published

2026-04-08

How to Cite

1.
Gonçalves AF, Alves JH, Ruzzi-Pereira A. Capgras syndrome in clinical settings: an integrative review of case reports. Debates Psiquiatr. [Internet]. 2026 Apr. 8 [cited 2026 Apr. 24];16:1-26, e1557. Available from: https://revistardp.org.br/revista/article/view/1557

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Review Articles

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