Case VII. Hysteria—Several Years’ Illness—Operation—Cure.
Miss M., æt. 42; admitted into the London Surgical Home April 13, 1862.
History.—Has felt ailing for many years, but for the last two has suffered pain in the uterine region, and, on pressure, over the ovaries. This pain is accompanied by bearing down, and a sense of distension. Suffers from considerable leucorrhœa. Menstruation regular, and during the period the pain is absent. Bowels regular. Sleep disturbed. Feels depressed, and is inclined to melancholia.
On examination there was no congestion of uterus or enlargement of ovaries, but there was evidence of peripheral irritation of the pudic nerve.
April 17. Usual operation performed.
She rapidly improved; sleep and cheerfulness returned, and all pain left her. She expressed herself as not having been so well for many years.
May 13. Left the Home, having gained flesh and strength, and being quite cured of all her bad symptoms.
Remarks.—Interest attaches to this case, as instead of exacerbation, there was diminution of the symptoms during menstruation.