Recognizing Diogenes syndrome: a case report

BACKGROUND: Diogenes syndrome is a behavioural disorder characterized by domestic squalor, extreme self-neglect, hoarding, and lack of shame regarding one’s living condition. Patients may present due to a range of reasons. Recognizing these will allow for earlier management of this high-mortality condition. CASE PRESENTATION: 61-year Caucasian female known with bipolar 1 disorder presented with manic symptoms. She was very unkempt and foul smelling. After being admitted involuntarily, she requested that someone go to her home to feed her pets. Her house was filled with garbage, rotting food, and animal feces. She had no insight into any personal hygiene or public health problems. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with Diogenes syndrome may be difficult to identify. Knowledge of the characteristics of Diogenes syndrome can aid in earlier recognition of such individuals, in order to decrease morbidity and mortality, and to improve public health.