Amazon.com Widgets
About the Museum
The Museum of Hoaxes is dedicated to promoting knowledge about hoaxes. (Click here for opening hours, etc.) On our blog we post about dubious- sounding claims, and whatever else strikes our fancy. The site is also home to the Hoaxipedia (the museum's online encyclopedia of hoaxes), the Hoax Forum, and the Top 100 April Fools' Day Hoaxes.

The museum was created in 1997 by Alex Boese. He's assisted by a staff of deputy curators and docents. Alex is the author of three books, most recently Elephants on Acid: And Other Bizarre Experiments (which has nothing to do with hoaxes). Check out the list of the Top 20 Most Bizarre Experiments of All Time for a preview.


Web Hoax Museum

Prankplace.com
FUNNY T-SHIRTS
Browse our top quality t-shirts, and you are guaranteed to find one perfect for you, or to give as a funny gift to a friend or family member. Our shirts come in your choice of sizes, most are available in Medium, Large, XL, 2XL and 3XL.

COVERT CLICKER
Secretly control the TV, anywhere, any time! This device is so small it is easily concealed in your pocket. It can control volume, change the channel or turn the TV on & off. It works on 90% of all TV's.


Morgellons Disease: Is It Real?
image Sufferers of Morgellons disease complain of invisible parasites biting their skin. And they get skin lesions from which sprout strange fibers. And mysterious black spore-like specks appear on their skin. Cases of this strange disease seem to be spreading, especially in the Bay area. One theory is that it has something to do with Lyme disease. Or it may be a case of mass delusion. The medical community seems to think it's mass delusion. Most people who show up complaining of these symptoms get diagnosed with 'delusional parasitosis', which is a psychological problem in which people imagine that they're infested by parasites. Not having any medical qualifications at all, I won't weigh in on whether this is a real disease or mass delusion, but some of the behavior of the patients does sound suspiciously bizarre. Take the case of Theresa Blodgett:

She gathers up the black specks, the mysterious fibers and the small, fuzzy 'cocoons' she finds on her skin and around her home. She tapes the macabre samples to typing paper, but she said no doctor will analyze the collection. Physicians who glance at the specimens dismiss the lot as stray hairs, clothing fibers, scabs and other common household debris, she said.

So either she really is suffering from something and is desperately but unsuccessfully trying to get doctors to pay attention to her, or she's obsessively collecting house dust and stray flecks of dirt and convincing herself that these things are parasites attacking her. (Thanks to 'K' for the links)
Posted By: Alex | Date: Thu Feb 10, 2005 | Permalink | Total Comments: 570
Category: Health/Medicine, Psychology
Comments
Listed in chronological order. Newest comments at the end.
Page 2 of 29 pages  <  1 2 3 4 >  Last »
OK, Sarcastikus, I have checked out the website and I'm sticking with my assesment that it seems to have been authored by a non-scientist (not that there's anything wrong with that). There seems to be only one person on the staff with a Phd (Douglas Buckner, Ph.D), and when I google him he's a bit invisible (as comparison, my brother, who's a Phd, shows up lot's of places becaused of published research work he's done). Is he an M.D.? What are his credentials?
Posted by JoeSixpack  on  Wed Feb 16, 2005  at  10:32 AM
There are 1200 people all over the US, in Canada, Australia who report the same symptoms and have in fact through the miracle of the scanner on the computer match up exactly these dermal entities.
There is absolutely no question that this is the same disease manifestation. Being a Registered Nurse of sound mind and definately not drug addicted, having this same skin ulcerating condition, I can say without hesitation this is a new and emerged disease that the public might well pay close attention to. For as long as CDC and the Public Health Departments prefer to ignore this situation, it will continue. There are now so many people coming forward that news releases are now showing up all across our nation. This particular disease is by no means delusional.It all looks exactly the same under the microscope.
Posted by newnemerging  in  Hawaii  on  Thu Feb 17, 2005  at  05:19 PM
http://www.mskcc.org/mskcc/html/48521.cfm

Read what defines research and scientific development.

And yes I'm comparing Morgellon's research and development teams to this Nobel Laureates abilities and idealogy.

Because all it takes is the desire to unravel the unknown. To seek better health through a microscope with stains and petri dishes without the aid of big institutions is daunting. Why people feel the need to run down people who are trying to help other people is beyond me.




Science is truly a revolutionary path to follow," he said, because it can lead to major changes in world views that are often met with great opposition. He cited Galileo and Darwin as two scientists whose ideas challenged the standard beliefs of the day. "Science will constantly reshape and enrich our culture, and without it, then culture and society will be seriously impoverished. But it challenges existing dogma and it causes fear as a consequence."

Dr. Nurse believes that — like soccer — "science transcends all cultural barriers within the world" and provides a common language for cross-cultural communications. "An argument can be made for science based on its humanizing efforts across nations and cultures."

But he acknowledged that there are fears about science in the eyes of the public, because its rapid and complex progress can be disturbing, it challenges established opinions, it is expensive and relies on public support, and because "communications between scientists and the public could be better." To build and maintain trust between scientists and the public, Dr. Nurse stressed the importance of education, including communicating that science is a process.
Posted by dkinaz  on  Thu Feb 17, 2005  at  08:07 PM
dkinaz,
what does any of this have to do with morgellons disease?

Newnemerging, do you know anything about this "Morgellons Research Foundation" and Douglas Buckner, Ph.D? Are they a legitimate organization?

Where can I find out more about the disease?
Posted by JoeSixpack  on  Thu Feb 17, 2005  at  08:42 PM
Hi Joe,
I'm a middle age woman, own my own company, non drug user and no alchol and I don't see worms or bugs of any kind whatsoever....ever.

I do have symptoms that resemble many of those written about on the Morgellon's website, and that is where I suggest you go to seek the information you desire.

I thank God everyday that this website is there..thinking I was the only person in the world with such strange things was terrible.

So sorry the ambience or it's appeal isn't your cup of tea. It was donated to the founder and has been a great source of comfort and appreciated by all who go there.

If you want to know more about the Foundation and the members why don't you go to the site and email the founder. She'll answer anyone's questions and she doesn't ask for anything from anyone.
Yep they're legit. I've known the founder for several years now and she's for real. Just like our symptoms.

Many people have tested positive for bacteria/Lyme and others have yet to be diagnosed.

I've not had a DOP diagnosis, doctors know something's wrong, they just can't figure it out, and they're the first to admit it. Fortunately for me, I'm not nearly as ill as some of the other registrants.
The reason I wrote what I wrote seemed obvious to me. Sorry it seemed puzzling. The main thing I wanted to leave on this particular site was this excerpt from the first message I left.

Excerpt

Science is truly a revolutionary path to follow," he said, because it can lead to major changes in world views that are often met with great opposition. He cited Galileo and Darwin as two scientists whose ideas challenged the standard beliefs of the day. "Science will constantly reshape and enrich our culture, and without it, then culture and society will be seriously impoverished. But it challenges existing dogma and it causes fear as a consequence."

End of Excerpt.

I just thought of something, this site is generally used by those who look for pessimistic happenings. So I can see why shades of gray would be slightly less than welcomed here.
Posted by dkinaz  on  Thu Feb 17, 2005  at  09:47 PM
The people suffering with symtpoms of the skin
is real however the name Morgellons Disease is not. There is no currently accepted disease nomenclature to be found other than what they have self-promoted. This group also call itself Lymebusters. Many liberties appear to be taken without scientific basis or accountability.
Posted by Perry Mason  on  Fri Feb 18, 2005  at  02:38 AM
Found one scientific article on the subject. This looks to be quite legitimate:

http://www.headlice.org/news/2004/delusory.htm

http://www.headlice.org/report/research/jnyes.pdf
Posted by Perry Mason  on  Fri Feb 18, 2005  at  04:32 AM
I've suffered Morgellons (a real disease, by the way) for many years. I fought this for so long, I just knew there had to be a more logical explanation. But nothing else makes any sense and I am totally sane, not addicted to any drugs nor do I drink. It's not delusional but believe me, many of us who suffer with it wish it was. What we've seen and endured goes beyond what most of you skeptics could ever handle.

If you did your homework, you'd know there are very few true cases of true delusionary parasitosis. And you might just want to inquire as to why the drugs used in treating this condition all contain insecticides. Coincidence?

Aside from the fact that there are well-deocumented cases of insects getting into people's skin (and being drawn to them via some type of fungal infection), Lyme disease also affects the nerves in a way that makes you feel like something is crawling on you.

Many Morgellons sufferers have tested positive for this new type of Lyme and you would be doing yourselves a favor to research this a bit. It's epidemic in this country now but the REAL question is why this news is being kept under wraps????
Posted by WiseOne  in  North Dakota  on  Fri Feb 18, 2005  at  06:32 AM
It's very real. Do the research. The skin crawling sensation is due to a bacteria that has a flagellum (foot) that waves back and forth allowing it to move, thus causing that creepy crawly feeling. Can you imagine millions of these things in your body? *shudders* These organisms create a web-like substance that anchors them in place. Doctor's have seen these fibers in the skin and around the leisions.
When mainstream media acknowledges this bizarre condition/disease then people will "accept" its reality.
Posted by hourglass  on  Tue Feb 22, 2005  at  02:09 AM
As of late, this disease has often been the in the news and highlighted on Coast to Coast a.m. with various experts on the subject.
I'm certain it'll definitely get people thinking and put them in the "know."

Tonight (feb 21) the doctor mentioned that this bacteria was found in bottled water. Gads. I gotta research this more.
Posted by doppleganger  on  Tue Feb 22, 2005  at  02:15 AM
My mother has Morgellons. This is a very real disease. I have seen these things she picks out of her skin, lips, nose, etc. It is quiet unsettling as noone knows what the outcome is for Morgellons sufferers.
Is anyone aware of the string of "deaths" of microbiologists around the world in the last few years? Some of them were studing " NEW EMERGING DISEASES". Now, let's see, is something not a disease because we've never heard of it or seen it ourselves??? Wonder what was going through the mind of the person/persons who were diagnosing the first case of Alhiemers Disease? (sorry 'bout spelling!) The first case of PMS? I actually went to a doctor 3 years ago because I could not unrinate! I could only go so much and then quit. It didn't feel like the usual bladder infection feels (you ladies know what I mean!). There was no pain or burning I just couldn't go! I also had something else happening with my body called "hot spots". It felt in spots on my body like 105 degree temp. It was extremely uncomfortable. When I explained these symptoms to my sis-in-law, she said that's what she experiences with her disease, Fibromylagia. So, I went to this doc who told me he didn't believe in Fibromyalgia and that I needed psychiactic help. He couldn't find Hmmmmmmmmm.....went to my gyconcologist two days later and he couldn't believe my urethra was only completely closed. He had to dialete my urethra! The blessed joy of being able to relieve myself returned IMMEDIATELY upon the completion of the procedure!!!!!!
Gee, I guess I had "delusions of urinitosis" until a doctor found I actually didn't think myself into "not unrinating"! Now, I ask you, do I sound a little aggresive? If so, I apologize. I am just so sick and tired of doctors looking at people and telling them "it's all in their head". I am sick of doctors not listening to the patient, and that can only hear the lectures of the "psycho-somatic" conditions ringing in their heads. Do you think the first AIDS patient was "delusional"? I wonder if anyone paid attention to what was going on with him, or was he simply shrugged off as someone who needed "help" until he died?
I totally agree that there are many things that people can become "sick" with just because of stress or mental illnesses. However, just because we can't see them doesn't mean the illness is not there. We can't see coronary disease, but it is real, wouldn't you agree??? We can't see HIV, but we know it's there and we don't see it until it manifest itself AIDS. We can't see Rhuematoid Arthritis, until it starts to twist and knarl the joints in a person. I can tell you from first hand experience that RA is very real and VERY painful. It has to be to be literally making the bones and joints take a new shape.
We need to give people the benefit of the doubt when they tell us about symptoms that we may not be able to see, (such as a headache).
I think I've had my say, thanks.
Posted by jaleenasmom  on  Wed Feb 23, 2005  at  10:31 AM
Very well put jaleenasmom!
And yes, I too have heard of the numerous deaths of microbiologists, what? Isn't in the 50's now, over the past couple years? Kinda scarry if you ask me. Something's certainly going on there with out a doubt. Many people seem to think it's govenment realated. I don't know. It's a pretty sickening and disheartening thought though.
And the doctor's definitely need to acquire "listening skills" when presented with such issues and not play the physisian referral or "pass the buck along" game. It's costly and insulting!

I just *know* that more and more light will be shed on this peculiar disease and soon it will have its place in forefront of medical journals.
Too bad it has to be this way until then.
Posted by hourglass  in  Detroit area  on  Fri Feb 25, 2005  at  12:46 AM
cool smile
Thank you, hourglass! I feel to that it will soon be getting more attention as I am on a vendeta to see that it does. I have contacted one t.v. station in our area as of yesterday, and I have about 7 more to go. Lots of stations within a 200 mile radius of us and at least people in Tennessee, Kentucky, Missouri, Illinois and Arkasas will know what they have or be able to maybe identify it. At least they will know they're not NUTS. raspberry
The body count of microbiologists is up to 79 since about 1984. At first it was rampant, it slacked a while and then started full force again.
That # is NOT including the 5 microbiologists that died when their plane was shot down by "an errant surface to air missle that was 100 miles off course". Yeah, right. I have ocean front property in AZ for anyone who believes that one.
Reports coming from Iraq tell of at least 300 scientists and microbiologists being executed.
Wonder why there were so many in IRAQ????? Why would Saddam have needed over 300 experts in Iraq??? Can we say "biological warfare"?
Given that this is true. I don't know the source of that information so I am taking lightly, but no TOO lightly as I wouldn't doubt anything completely right now.
As for who is behind it, there are several theories out there and unfortunately ALL of them make sense!
IF some of these scientists did actually have a cure for such diseases as Mad Cow, Alzehiemer's, ebola, flu, and figured out how to alter genetic make-up by using DNA, why would they have been killed? It's not likely government driven as it is Pharmacuticle company driven. Have they become more powerful than any government of earth?
So many theories, but I do not believe we will ever know the truth. The last death that occured January 7 of this year troubles me the most. Found having been stabbed repeatedly, put in the trunk of his on car, which was then set on fire, and burned is quit unsettling as no one saw anything! How? This happened in a Maryland parking garage.
It's scary when you know scientists who possibly had a cure for terrible diseases and was working on "new and emerging infectious diseases" are getting knocked off.
More later!
Posted by jaleenasmom  on  Fri Feb 25, 2005  at  05:46 AM
Believe this is real. This disease is spreading and pray your family doesn't get "dilusional". A friend of mine actually has this. After much research trying to help her I found that a majority of Morgellons patients are highly respectable nurses. So that should tell you something right there. Not only this is a real thing but it has a good chance of being contageous. Beware ... it could happen to you. And no one will believe you. It's a very sad story. Do your own research on it and come to your own conclusion. I guarantee it will make you think twice before you judge.
Posted by A believer  in  Texas  on  Mon Feb 28, 2005  at  01:56 PM
I don't know what is the matter with people who set up websites like this - I suffered (badly) from CFIDS for years and NOW it has been recognized by the CDC as an actual illness, and by Dr. Garth Nicholson as an illness with a cause (mycoplasma infection - same as Gulf War Illness and Fibromyalgia) - don't be so quick to believe STUPID DOCTORS WHO DON'T BOTHER TO DO PROPER RESEARCH - Most MD's seem to be part idiot when it comes to looking into anything new - it may interest you to know that MS was considered a hoax in the 50's and the sufferers were labeled "malingerers" - just like the CFIDS sufferers after them. Here is some info on Morgellons:
Dr. George Schwartz of the Healing Research Institute shared his research into Morgellons Disease, the baffling skin ailment that produces crawling sensations and the appearance of odd fibers. After culturing a sample from one of his patients, a bacteria that was a variant of Pseudomonas was discovered. It is found in some bottled and spring waters, he said, and was previously considered to be relatively harmless.

Schwartz speculated that because the bacteria has flagella (whip-like structures used to move), this may be what causes the itching sensation in those afflicted. "We're witnessing an epidemic of this condition," and at least some of the cases are caused by this organism, he declared. He was able to greatly reduce the symptoms in the woman who had the bacteria by giving her high doses of a sulfa drug, he added.

DONT be a dumb 20 something male who thinks he's smart because he's a SKEPTIC - you will eventually turn into a hard headed 40 something male without a clue.
Posted by AS  in  seattle  on  Mon Feb 28, 2005  at  04:33 PM
I'm sure I'll do my best not to be a 'dumb 20 something male'.
rolleyes

Although I have to add that I believe skepticism is healthy.
Posted by Boo  in  The Land of the Haggii...  on  Tue Mar 01, 2005  at  01:36 AM
cool grin
See that smiley, boo? That'll be the woman you marry if you wind up a dumb 20 something, I know because I've already divorced a 40 something without a clue!
My mom has started treatment today and has discovered this disease on my step-father. He is in a nursing home which her doctor can't go into so she will have to start taking him to her and soon. He is wasting away and his mind is worse everyday. She says that his case is MUCH worse than hers, so she probably caught it from him.
You are correct, a believer. Lots of reputable nurses have this disease which could mean that people have passed through their station under their care and passed it to them without the patient even knowing that they had anything to pass. And contracting this from water may be something of a working theory now. I have contacted several people who say they do not drink bottled water or tap water anymore. They have their own distillers/purifiers. I have contacted one person in UK who also doesn't drink water "normally" anymore. He too thinks he contracted this by water.
Posted by jaleenasmom  on  Tue Mar 01, 2005  at  07:55 PM
I have answer how to terat Morgenllons, yust contact me
Posted by Lazar B. Kostic  in  Canada  on  Tue Mar 01, 2005  at  11:10 PM
This disease is nothing to laugh off. Read up on bioengineered substances being sprayed for agriculture. Read up on stealth viruses.
Whatever this disease is it is not made by nature.
I have lived with it for 7 years, I know.
have a look. http://photos.yahoo.com/pookalala
Get yourself a good magnifying glass and take a look for red and blue fibers in your hair brush.
Posted by Greema  on  Tue Mar 01, 2005  at  11:44 PM
Jaleenasmom, I'm already 20-something, by no means dumb, and I'm female. Other than that you're spot on.
I know some people get so set in their opinions that they are not open to any other views. That happens on both sides of the fence. It's just something you have to deal with. Personally, as I said in my first post, I think a certain level of skepticism is healthy.
There is a certain lack of evidence about this disease, despite there being so many people (you
mention 'lots of' reputable nurses) who claim to suffer from it. People are postulating different theories as to where it comes from.
So at the moment, until there is some more evidence other than personal statements, I cannot say that this is definitely real. What you were saying is very sad, but you are just a faceless name on a computer screen and, as such, could be making the whole thing up.

Phew.
Posted by Boo  in  The Land of the Haggii...  on  Wed Mar 02, 2005  at  01:42 AM
Page 2 of 29 pages  <  1 2 3 4 >  Last »

Name:

Email (if you want to be notified of responses):

Location:

URL:

Note: To prove that you're a human being, not an automated spam bot, you've got to type in the word you see below. If you register as a member of the site you won't have to do this. Once registered, you'll then also need to login. If you're seeing this notice, and you've already registered, that means you haven't logged in. As a member you also won't have to enter your personal info every time you leave a comment.

Submit the word you see below:


Smileys

Remember my personal information

Notify me of follow-up comments?