What is Cotard’s syndrome?

Cotard’s syndrome is a relatively rare condition that was first described by Dr Jules Cotard (1840-1889) in 1882. Cotard was a Parisian neurologist who first described “Le délire des negations” ("The Delirium of Negation").

Cotard's syndrome or Cotard's delusion comprises any one of a series of delusions ranging from the fixed and unshakeable belief that one has lost organs, blood, or body parts, to believing that one has lost one's soul or is dead. In its most profound form, the delusion takes the form of a professed belief that one does not exist. Sufferers also include many who have delusions of immortality.

Cases have been reported in patients with mood disorders, psychotic disorders, and medical conditions. Cases of ‘Cotard’s’ are rare and have been successfully treated with electroconvulsive treatment (ECT) and pharmacological treatment. With the depressed patient, ECT seems to be more effective than pharmacotherapy.