TITLE:
Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in Defilement: Case Report
AUTHORS:
D. A. Kokonya, W. M. Kuria, F. A. Ong’echa, J. M. Mburu, D. M. Ndetei
KEYWORDS:
Defilement, Complex PTSD, ADHD, RTS, Extreme Stress, Psychiatric Morbidities
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Psychiatry,
Vol.4 No.3,
June
27,
2014
ABSTRACT: We report a case of the
debilitating and lifelong complex post traumatic stress disorder. Data on
rape/defilement-related complex post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is rare
due to low reporting rates and misdiagnosis in Kenya. Childhood complex PTSD is
compounded by its symptomatic overlap with rape trauma syndrome (RTS) and
attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This case demonstrated the
difficulties involved in making the correct diagnosis while at the same time it
brought to the fore clearly the features of complex PTSD as opposed to ordinary
PTSD. Strengths in management
depended on making appropriate diagnosis based on concerted efforts by
clinicians, comprehensive care, team work, sensitivity to age and sex, winning
trust of the child and the care taker among others and bearing in mind the
in-ward handling of the trauma by the rape/defilement victims. This case shared
a lot with other cases of complex PTSD in its presentation, course of illness,
diagnosis and response to management protocol instituted yielding positive
results. Using the lessons learnt from this case, her response was satisfactory
based on her improved social and occupational functioning. The patient
continues to respond well to treatment to date, bearing in mind that her
presentation and age within a dysfunctional family background did not offer
good prognosis, especially if the management and social support system will not
be steadfast and innovative.