Dissociative Trance Led to a Catastrophe: A Case Report.
Cureus December 1, 2024 Ahmed Z Salama, Mohammad R Dabash, Abdullah Elayan et al.
Dissociative trance disorder, a type of other specified dissociative disorder, involves abrupt loss of awareness, unresponsiveness, and involuntary actions, with individuals feeling separated from their body as if controlled by an external force. A 22-year-old patient with no prior criminal history experienced episodes of decreased consciousness, altered identity, and involuntary movements, perceived as external control, culminating in a tragic event where she killed her children. After ruling out psychotic disorders, organic factors, and substance abuse, dissociative trance disorder was diagnosed. Treatment with cognitive behavioral therapy, antidepressants, antipsychotics, and benzodiazepines improved symptoms.