This patient was brought to me by Dr. Marley, with the following account:—
“Has the appearance of a child of 10 or 12 years old; mammæ not developed; has had epileptic fits ever since 12 years of age. Is now almost idiotic; stares vacantly; slobbers at the mouth; passes her motions anywhere, without regard to common decency, and cannot retain her urine. I find from her mother that she is incessantly irritating her genitals. Her fits vary in frequency, from two or three a day to four or five a week. Being satisfied of the cause of her fits, I sent her to you.”
History, taken at the Home from her mother.—Had perfect health until she reached her eleventh year; was forward in her lessons, and well educated for her age and position. At this time she was suddenly seized with a severe fit, for which no cause could be assigned. A period of two years elapsed before she had a second, when, being placed under medical treatment for eighteen months, she had great relief. Since the expiration of that time to the present she has constantly suffered from fits.
Her intellect did not begin to weaken until two years since, but she ceased growing and learning after the first attack. At this time she does not know her right hand from her left; does not know her mother, and shows no signs whatever of ordinary intelligence. From being cleanly as a child, is now most filthy—in fact, is in every sense an idiot.
Has never menstruated.
On examination—although, as stated by Dr. Marley, the mammæ were very rudimentary—there was full development, and indeed abnormal hypertrophy, of the external genitals.
Feb. 18. The usual operation performed, under chloroform. The hands to be restrained, and the patient most carefully watched.
Feb. 19. Has passed a good night, and is quiet.
Feb. 23. Has been very drowsy since the operation. To-day asked for food for the first time, and showed some signs of intelligence.
Feb. 26. Gave rational answers to several questions which were asked her. Also remembers from day to day any promises of delicacies of diet or money.