Penile self-mutilation associated with religious overvalued idea: A case of Klingsor syndrome!

Abstract

Genital self-mutilation is reported in the context of various psychiatric illnesses ranging from neurotic spectrum disorders to psychotic spectrum disorders, including personality disorders. The term Klingsor syndrome is used to describe penile self-mutilation, mostly in the context of religious delusions. We highlight here a case of penile self-mutilation in the context of religious overvalued idea and dysthymia. The psychodynamics of penile self-mutilation is discussed along with review of literature.

Keywords

• Genital self-mutilation
• Klingsor syndrome
• overvalued idea