[Münchhausen syndrome by proxy between two adults]. / Le syndrome de Münchhausen par procuration entre deux adultes.

OBJECTIVES: Münchhausen syndrome by proxy has been well described in the case of a women producing or pretending symptoms in one of her children, leading that child to have numerous medical interventions. The case of two adults has been seldom described and the differences in the psychopathological features of the two situations are not well known. METHODS: We report our observation of a Münchhausen syndrome in a married couple where the wife injected tranquilizers to her husband, inducing repeated episodes of coma. Complex interactions between the pathological personalities of the husband and wife were present. Prominent features of the wife's personality included a narcissistic deficiency, poor defenses and signs of depression. DISCUSSION: Practioners should be aware of this peculiar pathology to avoid delayed diagnosis and its dramatic consequences. Appropriate medical, psychiatric, as well as legal measures must be taken.