title: Self-cannibalism in the absence of psychosis and substance use.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The aim of this paper is to review the literature and describe a case of self-cannibalism.
  
  
  METHODS
  A literature review and a case report of self-cannibalism occurring in a 28-year-old male, in the absence of psychosis and drug and alcohol use, is presented.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Seven previous case reports of self-cannibalism were identified in the literature; most cases were associated with severe psychosis. A 28-year-old male amputated and ate a finger, without evidence of impaired reality testing and substance use.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Although rare, self-cannibalism can occur in the absence of psychosis and substance use. Future reports may lead to a better understanding of this unusual phenomenon.
authors: Hillmorton Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand. erik.monasterio@cdhb.govt.nz
authors: Erik
authors: E
authors: Monasterio
authors: Craig
authors: C
authors: Prince
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D002190:Cannibalism / Q000523:psychology*; D003865:Major Depressive Disorder / Q000523:psychology; D005385:Fingers; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D019964:Mood Disorders / Q000209:etiology / Q000523:psychology; D010551:Personality; D011618:Psychotic Disorders / Q000523:psychology*; D016728:Self-Injurious Behavior / Q000523:psychology*; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000523:psychology*