Citation

Tobias CR, Turns DM, Lippmann S, Pary R, Oropilla TB. South. Med. J. 1988; 81(10): 1261-1263.

Affiliation

Department of Psychiatry, University of Louisville, Ky.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1988, Southern Medical Association)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

3175733

Abstract

Instances of deliberate self-injury are observed in both psychotic and nonpsychotic individuals. Patients with command hallucinations, religious preoccupations, substance abuse, and social isolation are the most vulnerable. Persons who request unnecessary surgical procedures for bizarre reasons also are at high risk. Such behavior constitutes a medical, surgical, and psychiatric emergency. A thorough psychiatric evaluation is mandated in every case. Vigorous psychiatric treatment and follow-up care involving the full range of pharmacologic, somatic, and psychologic interventions are indicated.

Language: en