Case XXVI. Epileptiform Fits and General Hysteria—Four Years’ Duration—Operation—Cure.
Mrs. F., æt. 44; admitted into the London Surgical Home April 23, 1864.
History.—Married sixteen years, but her husband has been abroad for the past seven years. Had inflammation of the womb four years ago, and since that time has continually suffered from bearing-down pains. Frequent desire to micturate. Pain in the loins and spine, sleepless nights, loss of appetite, and other hysterical symptoms. Has slight “epileptic fits” two or three times a week, more frequently at catamenial periods, which are regular in appearance and not profuse. Has no premonition of fits; is but partially conscious; at first struggles, then becomes rather rigid, and on recovery is always exhausted. Patient is most anxious to be cured of her attacks, of the cause of which she is fully conscious.
April 25. Clitoris excised, under chloroform.
April 26. Had a good night, better than for years.
April 30. Progressing most favourably. Patient expresses great gratitude for the relief she has obtained. She left the Home a month later, looking and feeling quite well; the last note in the case-book being “a very grateful patient.”