Munchausen syndrome by proxy: unusual manifestations and disturbing sequelae.
Since the initial description of Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy (MSBP) (Meadow, 1977), numerous cases have been reported varying from as simple as the complaint of a nonexistent symptom to those as complicated as altered laboratory tests leading to the false diagnosis of cystic fibrosis (Orenstein & Wasserman, 1986; Rosenberg, 1987). We report three findings previously unreported: esophageal perforation, retrograde intussusception, and tooth loss. Bradycardia has been previously reported associated with suffocation (Meadow, 1984), but in our case may have been caused by carotid artery massage. We also suggest possible induction by the mother of premature rupture of fetal membrane leading to delivery of infected infants.
Porter
G E
GE
Department of Pediatrics, Marshfield Clinic, Marshfield Medical Research Foundation, WI 54449.
Heitsch
G M
GM
Miller
M D
MD
D001919:Bradycardia / Q000209:etiology*; D002675:Child, Preschool; D002658:Developmental Disabilities / Q000209:etiology*; D004939:Esophageal Perforation / Q000209:etiology*; D006801:Humans; D007443:Intussusception / Q000209:etiology*; D008297:Male; D016735:Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000523:psychology; D012002:Rectal Diseases / Q000209:etiology*; D012810:Sigmoid Diseases / Q000209:etiology*; D016388:Tooth Loss / Q000209:etiology*