Self-cannibalism in the absence of psychosis and substance use.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this paper is to review the literature and describe a case of self-cannibalism.

METHOD

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.

CONCLUSION

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.