Bilateral Self-enucleation of the Eyes: Case Report and Literature Review.

Journal: Journal of the West African College of Surgeons

Volume: 13

Issue: 2

Year of Publication: 

Affiliated Institutions:  Centre for Eye Health Research and Training, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria. Guinness Eye Centre, Onitsha, Nigeria.

Abstract summary 

Self-removal of the eyeball is an extreme form of self-harm, which is rare especially in a society ill-disposed to self-maiming. We report the case of a 75-year old man who plucked out his own two eyes in obedience to a voice urging him to do so. According to his wife, the patient had been exhibiting symptoms suggestive of a psychiatric disorder just before the incident. But this was overlooked. This case report draws attention to the devastating ophthalmic consequences of neglected psychiatric disorders in the elderly. We recommend greater attention to the mental health of the elderly. Prevention and management of auto-enucleation requires a collaboration between psychiatrists and ophthalmologists.

Authors & Co-authors:  Nwosu Sebastian N N SNN Nwosu Victoria O VO Akudinobi Cyriacus Ugochukwu CU Onyiaorah Adaora Amaoge AA Uba-Obiano Chizoba Udoka CU

Study Outcome 

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Statistics
Citations :  Gauger EH, Sobel RK, Allen RC. Complications and outcomes after auto-enucleation. Curr Opin Ophthalmol. 2015;26:429–38.
Authors :  5
Identifiers
Doi : 10.4103/jwas.jwas_225_22
SSN : 2276-6944
Study Population
Man
Mesh Terms
Other Terms
Elderly;Nigeria;psychosis;self-enucleation;self-harm
Study Design
Case Study,Cross Sectional Study
Study Approach
Country of Study
Publication Country
India