Self-enucleation in drug-related psychosis.

OBJECTIVE

To report on a patient who committed self-enucleation with his own fingers.

METHODS

Case report of a 28-year-old man who self-enucleated his right eye. After ophthalmological treatment, he was referred to the psychiatric department for further evaluation and treatment.

RESULTS

Reconstruction of the orbit was performed, and neither ophthalmological nor neurological complications were noted. The psychiatric history revealed continuous drug abuse (cannabis and amphetamines). The diagnosis of a drug-induced psychosis was established.

CONCLUSIONS

Self-enucleation or 'oedipism' is a rare entity which requires, besides an operative reconstruction of the orbit, neurological monitoring to prevent possible intracranial complications. Long-term psychiatric therapy should be attempted to prevent further self-injurious behaviour.