Erotic asphyxiation: May have you seeing double

Purpose: If not recognized and treated promptly, nontraumatic orbital subperiosteal hemorrhage (NTSOH) can have serious sequelae including compressive optic neuropathy and permanent vision loss. The following case establishes erotic asphyxiation as a cause of NTSOH. Observations: A 29 year-old patient presented with diplopia and periorbital edema and ecchymosis. Complete ophthalmologic exam showed no optic neuropathy. Computed tomography of the orbits revealed a subperiosteal fluid collection in the right orbit. The patient had no risk factors for NTSOH, but after detailed questioning she admitted to participating in erotic asphyxiation prior to the onset of her symptoms. She was observed and subsequently lost to follow up. Conclusions and Importance: To the authors’ knowledge, erotic asphyxiation as a cause of orbital subperiosteal hematoma has not been previously reported. Lack of knowledge about erotic asphyxiation amongst healthcare providers may contribute to hesitance to directly question patients about the practice. Clinicians should be aware of erotic asphyxiation as a potential cause of orbital subperiosteal hemorrhage.