The Effect of Therapeutic Phlebotomy for Hemochromatosis on Non-Suicidal Self-Injury: A Case Report

Background

Self-phlebotomy has been described as a form of non-suicidal self-injury. However, a relationship between non-suicidal self-injury and therapeutic phlebotomy for hemochromatosis has not previously been described. Case presentation: We present a case of a 52-year-old man in whom the frequency of his therapeutic phlebotomy and non-suicidal self-injury were inversely linked, leading to adverse outcomes when his phlebotomy was suspended.

Conclusions

This is the first report describing the relationship between nonsuicidal self-injury and therapeutic phlebotomy. This case highlights the need for risk assessment and monitoring of self-harm in patients who are undergoing therapeutic phlebotomy in order to prevent adverse outcomes.