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.
Case VIII. Hysteria—Many Years’ Illness—Phantom Tumour—Operation—Cure.
A. B., æt. 24; admitted into the London Surgical Home 16th July, 1862.
History.—Is a single woman, and procures a living by dressmaking. When younger, was a nurse-maid. Catamenia commenced before she was thirteen, but she was not regular until she was nineteen, since which the function has proceeded normally both in time and quantity. Has for many years been ailing, and always had something the matter. Has suffered from intense irritation in the genital region, especially in the bladder, and she has constant pain in the back. For two years has been treated at a dispensary for an abdominal tumour; during this period she has taken much medicine, but without benefit.
On examination the abdomen was found increased in size and universally tympanitic. Under the influence of chloroform the swelling entirely subsided.
July 17. Usual operation performed under the influence of chloroform.