ROLE OF MEDICAL CONDITIONS IN THE EXACERBATION OF SELF-INJURIOUS-BEHAVIOR - AN EXPLORATORY-STUDY

Self-injurious behavior (SIB) is common among people with severe menta l retardation who may also have multiple complex medical problems coup led with communication difficulties. This combination of factors somet imes makes it difficult to obtain accurate and detailed medical histor ies. In this exploratory descriptive study of 25 patients with SIB, 28 % had previously undiagnosed medical conditions that could be expected to cause pain or discomfort. Six of the 7 patients experienced decrea sed SIB with treatment of their medical conditions. In patients with S IB, impaired communication skills, and complex medical histories, medi cal conditions that may be associated with pain or discomfort must be a consideration in determining the etiology of the SIB.