My Mother Caused My Illness: The Story of a Survivor of Münchausen by Proxy Syndrome

Abstract

Objective. Münchausen by proxy syndrome (MBPS) is a form of child abuse in which a parent fabricates or produces illness in a child. Although the medical consequences of MBPS have been well described, there is no detailed published account of what it was like to grow up in a family where the mother systematically induced serious illness. This article describes one victim's childhood experiences. Methods. The medical history was obtained from a review of the original medical records, notes from the primary physician, discussions with two physicians who provided treatment, and several meetings with the victim and the victim's therapist. Results. This article chronicles the actual experiences of an MBPS victim through 8 years of medical abuse at the hands of her mother, reveals the victim's account of what happened to her, describes what her family was like, details the long-term consequences on emotional and physical development, identifies the factors that influence recovery, and details the impact on family relationships. Conclusions. Child maltreatment and MBPS need to be part of the differential diagnosis when the clinical picture is atypical or does not appear medically plausible. The consequences of MBPS are psychological and physical and impact the entire family. Suggestions to assist heath care providers recognize, assess, and report cases of suspected MBPS are provided.