Lightning burns and traditional medical treatment: a case report

Lightning strikes are relatively uncommon. In our culture where superstitions are strong and natural events often linked to evil forces, the traditional bonesetter/healer is often consulted first. Patients then seek orthodox care when complications develop. Patients also have difficulty accepting ablative treatment when indicated.

To present an usual case of bilateral upper limb burns caused by lightning and complicated by refusal to receive orthodox treatment.

A 22 year old woman was struck by lightning while asleep. Instead of going to hospital, she was taken to a traditional healer where she spent two months before presenting with gangrenous upper limbs to hospital. Patient refused amputation and abandoned hospital against medical advice.

This case report of bilateral upper limb burns resulting from lightning is rare. Importantly, the case highlights the role of ignorance, superstition and the disastrous results of traditional medical practice in our healthcare delivery.