Dissociative identity precipitated by emergence from general anesthesia: A case report and analytical framework
Gregory W Kirschen1, Mary E Shorey1,2, Joan Han3
1Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD, 21287.
Psychiatry Research Case Reports
|August 24, 2023
Summary
Anesthesia may precipitate dissociative identity disorder (DID) symptoms in susceptible individuals. This case report details a patient experiencing DID upon emergence from anesthesia, highlighting potential triggers and mechanisms.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Anesthesiology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Dissociative identity disorder (DID) is a complex psychiatric condition characterized by multiple distinct personalities.
- Patients often have a history of childhood abuse and comorbid conditions.
- Psychosocial stressors can trigger DID, but anesthesia's role is not previously reported.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of dissociative identity episode precipitated by anesthesia.
- To explore potential mechanisms linking anesthesia to functional brain connectivity in DID.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a patient with a history of childhood sexual abuse and suicide attempt.
- Observation of dissociative identity episode upon emergence from anesthesia.
- Review of literature on DID triggers and anesthetic effects.
Main Results:
- A patient experienced a dissociative identity episode after anesthesia.
- The episode resolved spontaneously within 90 minutes.
- The patient was discharged safely.
Conclusions:
- Anesthesia may be a precipitating factor for dissociative identity episodes in vulnerable individuals.
- This case contributes to understanding potential triggers for DID.
- A mechanistic hypothesis linking anesthesia to functional brain connectivity is proposed.
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