Abstract

Body Integrity Identity Disorder (BIID) is a collection of symptoms that manifest themselves in a patient’s desire to amputate otherwise healthy limbs. BIID has traditionally been misunderstood and understudied, but recent findings linking it to specific neural abnormalities warrant a re-evaluation of its definition and available treatment options. Analysis of recent neurological studies suggest that BIID must be recognized as a legitimate disorder with a clear physiological basis. The re-classification of BIID leads to the refutation of classical pro-patient-autonomy arguments and instead calls for paternalistic restrictions on patient autonomy that adhere to the Theory of Future Consent. Recent advances in treatments that safely alter brain function raise crucial questions about physicians’ duty to provide treatment and have far-reaching implications on societal opinions and obligations of and toward patients with BIID.