The Vision of Blindness—Sight Versus Insight: A Case Report and Literature Review of Self-enucleation (Oedipism). Issue 4 (July 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Vasilopoulou, Polyxeni; Giannakopoulos, Orestis; Beis, Pavlos; Konstantinou, Gerasimos N.
• Is Part Of: Journal of psychiatric practice. Volume 27:Issue 4(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-07
• Subjects: self-enucleation -- autoenucleation -- Oedipus -- first episode of psychosis -- ocular; Psychiatry -- Periodicals; Psychotherapy -- Periodicals; Mental health services -- Periodicals; 616.8917
• DOI: 10.1097/PRA.0000000000000558
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1527-4160

Abstract

Abstract : Self-enucleation or "Oedipism" is a rare ophthalmic and psychiatric emergency. Given the severity of its consequences, it requires proper medical management and that clinicians understand and be aware of the psychiatric presentation. Important clinical considerations include identification of various etiologies leading to self-enucleation, awareness of possible complications, and provision of appropriate care. We present a case of bilateral self-enucleation by a young male patient in the context of his first episode of psychosis and review the literature on this clinical entity. Ocular damage interferes significantly with activities of daily living and is associated with decreased quality of life so that identifying risk factors is of major importance to prevent this dangerous behavior.