A case of lightning injury with delayed-onset psychiatric and cognitive symptoms

Abstract

A case is presented of a man who was struck by lighting but, per his report, developed psychiatric and cognitive symptoms between 1-2 years after the incident. The case is discussed in light of the literature on lightning injury with particular emphasis on the aetiology of delayed symptoms. In this case it appears that some cognitive dysfunction may have occurred at the time of the lightning injury, but deficits were exacerbated after a delayed-onset of PTSD and other psychiatric symptoms. The author suggests possible mechanisms for delayed memory impairment in cases of lightning injury.