Oedipism: Auto-enucleation in a schizophrenic patient

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Psychiatry
• Ophthalmology

Background:

• Subarachnoid hemorrhage is a critical neurological event.
• Oedipism, or self-enucleation, is a rare but severe form of self-harm.
• Co-occurrence of these conditions presents unique management challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case of subarachnoid hemorrhage secondary to probable auto-enucleation (oedipism).
• To document the management strategy for these co-incident pathologies in a schizophrenic patient.
• To highlight the importance of a multidisciplinary approach.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a 67-year-old schizophrenic woman.
• Initial focus on investigating and managing subarachnoid hemorrhage.
• Collaborative management involving psychiatry, neurosurgery, and ophthalmology.

Main Results:

• The patient presented with subarachnoid hemorrhage and seizures post-enucleation.
• Successful management of the subarachnoid hemorrhage was achieved.
• Precautions were implemented to prevent further self-injurious behavior.

Conclusions:

• Subarachnoid hemorrhage can rarely be secondary to auto-enucleation.
• Effective management requires a coordinated effort between neurosurgeons, psychiatrists, and ophthalmologists.
• Prioritizing hemorrhage management while addressing self-harm behaviors is crucial.