Morgellons Disease Research Deep Dive and Recent Findings

Feb 11

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Morgellons, Lyme & the “Toxic Box” Phenomenon: What They’re Not Telling You

This is a research-based deep dive into Morgellons disease, its connection to Lyme, and the toxic shipping container exposure phenomenon that many sensitive individuals experience.

Let’s separate stigma from science.

Part 1: Morgellons Disease (MD) – The Shift in Understanding

For years, patients were dismissed with the diagnosis “Delusional Parasitosis.” That label is now being challenged.

A more biologically accurate term emerging from research circles is:

Filamentous Borrelial Dermatitis

This reflects what current evidence suggests: a dermatological manifestation associated with Borrelia infection.

The Biological Evidence: The Fibers Are Not “Lint”

For decades, dermatologists claimed the fibers found in lesions were textile contamination. Research says otherwise.

The Breakthrough
Microbiologist Marianne Middelveen and Dr. Raphael Stricker published findings indicating the fibers are biofilaments produced by the body.

What They’re Made Of
These fibers consist primarily of:

Keratin
Collagen

These are structural proteins produced by:

Keratinocytes (skin cells)
Fibroblasts (connective tissue cells)

They are not cotton or clothing fibers.

Why the Colors?

Blue fibers: Associated with melanin (natural skin pigment)
Red fibers: Likely linked to blood components such as hemoglobin

The Proposed Mechanism
The working theory suggests infection may disrupt normal skin cell function, leading to abnormal protein production that extrudes through the skin. This frames the condition as a physiological dermatological issue—not simply a scratching artifact.

The Lyme (Borrelia) Connection

Many researchers investigating Morgellons have identified a strong association with Borrelia species, the bacteria responsible for Lyme disease and Tick-Borne Relapsing Fever (TBRF).

Studies associated with the Charles E. Holman Morgellons Disease Foundation (CEHMDF), along with work by researchers such as Dr. Eva Sapi, report a high percentage of Morgellons patients testing positive for Borrelia species.

Researchers have also reported identifying Borrelia spirochetes (the corkscrew-shaped bacteria) in skin tissue samples from affected individuals.

The hypothesis:
Borrelia may persist in skin tissue, contributing to inflammation and filament formation in susceptible individuals.

Key Researchers Challenging the Stigma

These professionals have contributed to reframing Morgellons as a dermatological condition requiring biomedical investigation:

Marianne Middelveen (Microbiologist) – Conducted foundational fiber composition research.
Dr. Raphael Stricker (San Francisco) – Lyme-focused physician publishing on Morgellons as a physiological condition.
Dr. Ginger Savely (DNP) – Clinician with extensive experience treating Morgellons patients.
The Charles E. Holman Morgellons Disease Foundation (CEHMDF) – Funds and supports biomedical research on the condition.

Part 2: The “Toxic Box” Phenomenon – Shipping Container Exposure

Many people report acute reactions when entering stores stocking newly opened imported goods. While often dismissed, there is a scientific basis for potential exposure risks.

What Happens in Shipping Containers?

Goods shipped overseas are sealed in containers for weeks. To prevent infestation or mold damage, containers may be treated with fumigants.

Additionally, products themselves can emit volatile chemicals.

Chemicals Commonly Associated with Shipping and Off-Gassing

1. Methyl Bromide

Historically used as a fumigant
Colorless, odorless
Known neurotoxin
Possible symptoms of exposure: dizziness, headache, nausea, confusion

2. Phosphine

Used in grain and bulk goods fumigation
May smell like garlic or rotting fish (but can be odorless)
Can cause respiratory distress

3. Formaldehyde

Commonly off-gasses from pressed wood, glues, textiles, and plastics
Can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation
May trigger wheezing or skin reactions in sensitive individuals

When boxes are opened, trapped gases and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) can be released into the surrounding air.

Individuals with:

Chemical sensitivities
Mast cell activation tendencies
Autoimmune conditions
Chronic infections

may react more intensely to these exposures.

Why “Unboxing” Can Trigger Reactions

During shipment, VOCs accumulate in enclosed spaces for 4–6 weeks. When containers or product packaging are opened, built-up gases may rapidly disperse.

For highly sensitive individuals, this can result in:

Sudden dizziness
Flushing
Headaches
Respiratory irritation
Skin reactions

This does not mean everyone will react. But in toxicology, susceptibility varies widely.

A Brief History of Morgellons

1674 – Sir Thomas Browne describes “The Morgellons” in French children, noting hair-like protrusions.
1946 – The term appears briefly in British medical literature.
2002 – Mary Leitao, a biologist and mother, observes fibers in her child’s skin and revives the term “Morgellons Disease.”
2012 – A CDC study characterizes the condition as likely delusional infestation, significantly shaping mainstream perception.
2013–Present – Independent researchers use PCR and molecular techniques to investigate infectious associations.

Where This Leaves Us

Morgellons remains controversial in mainstream medicine. However, emerging research suggests the need for continued investigation into infectious, dermatological, and environmental factors.

At minimum, this conversation raises important questions about: