Case XXIII. Epileptoid Fits—Fifteen Years—Illness for Twenty-six Years—Operation—Cure.
F. A. C., æt. 41, single; admitted into the London Surgical Home Nov. 6, 1863.
History.—Says she had congestion of the brain fifteen years ago; since that period cannot remember being well, but from the age of fifteen has been of delicate health. Has suffered from fits for the last fourteen or fifteen years; is never long free from them. During an attack she is not entirely unconscious, but possesses no power to control them nor to speak. Has pain at lower part of spine of a gnawing character. She is a miserable, nervous creature, with pinched features and a wandering restless expression of the eye. There is evidence of injurious peripheral irritation since a very early age.
Nov. 12. Operation as usual under chloroform.
Nov. 19. Is wonderfully better. The expression of her face is much happier, and the face itself has filled out considerably. No pain in the back since the operation.
Dec. 24. Discharged perfectly cured.