Case XXXVII. Epileptic Fits—Two Years’ Duration—Operation—Cure.
H. C., æt. 20, single; admitted into the London Surgical Home Feb. 24, 1864.
History.—About three years since, first commenced ailing. Menstruation ceased for four months, when it appeared for two days. Fifteen months then elapsed before the function was restored. Epileptic fits have been developed for about two years. The patient at the commencement of an attack is strongly convulsed, has no premonition, and is perfectly unconscious. Frequently falls when walking in the streets. Has often hurt herself in her falls, and also bitten her tongue. Has the usual symptoms of bearing-down of the womb, and pain in the loins. No pain in defecation. Bowels costive. Pain in micturition, and sometimes retention of urine, occasionally not passing any for two days.
March 3. Clitoris excised in the usual manner under chloroform. Was restless and hysterical for the first six days, when she improved daily, became cheerful, and much more intelligent. She never had another fit, and on April 13, being quite cured, was, at her own request, retained in the Home as a servant. She remained there under observation for six months, during which time she had not only no return of her former attacks, but progressively improved in health, and her menstruation became quite regular.
Since that time she has been living as cook in a family which I frequently visit, and it is therefore certain that she remains perfectly well.