Autophagia in a Patient with Dementia and Hemineglect: A Case Report

Patients living with dementia as well as patients with neurological deficits are at significant risk for injury from multiple sources. Injuries may include falls, neglect, and, in some cases, self-injury. These patients require significant observation and closely monitored care.

A 90-year-old man presented to a suburban emergency department (ED) by his family, who cared for him at home. The following case report describes a patient with dementia, hemineglect, and bruxism from a previous stroke who suffered a self-induced, partial amputation of his own thumb on the neglected side of his body.

Patients with dementia and neurologic deficits present frequently in the ED. These patients are at considerable risk of self-injury. The emergency physician should maintain vigilance in both screening for injuries and being aware of these risks when planning living arrangements after disposition from the ED.