Case XL. Epileptic Fits—Two Years and a Half Duration—Operation—Relief.
S. Z., æt. 16, single; admitted into the London Surgical Home October 20, 1865.
History.—Was strong and well until two and a half years ago, when she had an epileptic fit in the middle of the night. Can assign no cause for the attack. For a long time had a fit once a month, but latterly once a week. The catamenia appeared six months before the first fit, and have always been regular. There is no exacerbation at menstrual epoch. Complains of great irritation of pudendals for three years.
Nov. 2. Since admission this patient has been watched: she has had two fits, both of a genuine epileptic character.
Mr. Brown this day performed his usual operation. She went on well till the 10th, when she had a slight fit; there being irresistible irritation, the hands were restrained. A lotion of bromide of ammonium was ordered to be applied to the wound, and 20 grains of the bromide to be given in water three times daily.
She convalesced well, and had no more attacks till the 29th, when, her hands having been released only a few minutes previously, she had a fit, and the nurse found one hand on the wound. She was conscious during the attack, which was not so violent as before treatment.
Dec. 2. Discharged relieved. If this patient could be under control for a few months, she would probably be cured.