According to Sophocles, Oedipus the King killed his father and had sex with his mother.
AfterOedipusfound out what he did, he struck out his own eyes.
However, BIID is a complex problem, and some experts advocate for radical surgery as effective treatment.
These feelings are lifelong obsessions that result in considerable psychic suffering and trauma.
It’s unclear what causes BIID.
However, in most people with BIID, the etiology or cause of the disease remains to be elucidated.
Researchers whostudy BIIDhave observed brain changes in individuals with the disease.
Specifically, the parietal cortex, premotor cortex, and insula seem to be involved.
However, it’s unclear whether these brain regions lead to BIID or occur as a consequence of BIID.
Antidepressants and psychotherapy do little for the disease.
Furthermore, heavier psychotropic medications like antipsychotics haven’t been tested in this patient population.
Many people with BIID practice living with a disability.
These people are labeled “pretenders.”
Most people with BIID aren’t psychotic and don’t have delusions.
Moreover, the depression that some people with BIID experience develops after living with BIID.
It is likely a consequence, not cause, of the condition.
White also likens BIID to gender dysphoria and radical surgery in those with BIID to sexual reassignment surgery.
We’re probably a long way off from ever figuring out how to exactly help people who experience BIID.
First, research into BIID is low power because very few people have the condition.
Much of what we know about BIID is based on anecdotal accounts.
van Dijk, MT.
“Neural Basis of Limb Ownership in Individuals with Body Integrity Identity Disorder,” PLOS ONE, 2013.
“Body Integrity Identity Disorder Beyond Amputation: Consent and Liberty,“HEC Forum,2014.
