Fire fetishism, diagnostic and clinical implications: a review of two cases

From the 19th century and early writings on the subject, psychosexual factors have been reported to play a role in pyromania. After a brief review of the literature on firesetting and pyromania, two cases of arsonists are presented in which fire appears to be part of a fetish. Full sexual behaviours assessments were completed, therefore providing objective findings. Both subjects were treated for the sexual deviation associated with the acts of arson and showed significant changes in their sexual functioning. This paper deals with the issues of identification and management of such conditions.