How many PMO cases have been reported, and what changed recently?

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Approximately 75 Prosopometamorphopsia Cases Reported, with a Surge in Recent Inquiries

Over the past three years, more than 70 patients have contacted the lab of researcher Antonio Mello, indicating a significant recent increase in reported cases of prosopometamorphopsia (PMO). This surge contrasts with the historical scientific literature, which has documented only around 75 cases of the rare visual condition. This recent influx of patients has also facilitated the creation of the first photo-realistic images depicting how individuals with PMO perceive faces.
Historical Scientific Literature Documented Limited Cases

Previously, scientific literature had reported approximately 75 documented instances of prosopometamorphopsia. This condition causes faces to appear distorted in various ways, such as having pointed ears, exaggerated eyes, or mouths that stretch unnaturally. While some distortions are temporary, lasting only a few days, other individuals, like Victor Sharrah, continue to experience these visual alterations for years.
Recent Three-Year Period Saw a Significant Increase in Patient Contact

In stark contrast to the historical reporting, the last three years alone have seen more than 70 patients reach out to Antonio Mello's laboratory. This substantial number of recent contacts suggests a potential increase in awareness or a higher incidence of the condition, prompting more individuals to seek understanding and help. The terrifying nature of PMO has historically led to misdiagnoses, often being mistaken for schizophrenia or psychosis.
Unique Patient Facilitated Image Creation

Researchers at Dartmouth College, collaborating with Victor Sharrah, were able to create the first photo-realistic images representing the visual experience of PMO. This was made possible because Sharrah, unlike many other PMO sufferers, perceives faces on flat screens as normal. This unique characteristic allowed researchers to accurately compare the distortions Sharrah observed in real-life faces with their appearance on a screen, enabling the development of these unprecedented visual representations.

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How many PMO cases have been reported, and what changed recently?

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