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150 years ago: Hysterical paraplegia in a patient suffering from epileptic mania. December 2019;263(1832):30

150 years ago: Hysterical paraplegia in a patient suffering from epileptic mania

20 Dec 2019Registered users

E.S, A GIRL OF 16 YEARS of age, suffering from epileptic mania, and never having menstruated, was admitted into the Brookwood Asylum in October 1868, being unable to use either of her legs, and having in consequence to be carried into the ward on her arrival. A few days after her admission the use of Browning’s electro-magnetic machine was commenced About the end of December she was enabled to crawl about, and employ herself a little in cleaning the floors of the infirmary in which she was placed. She gradually improved, and during the second week in March she had her first catamenial period. In the beginning of April she suddenly discarded her crutches, which she had used for two or three months; and at the ball given to the patients the following week, danced several times, appearing to have quite recovered both sensation and motion. 

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