Bipolar disorder, testosterone administration, and homicide: A case report

Abstract

Objective. Homicide is a major public health and social concern in the United States. Studies have found higher rates of psychiatric disorders in homicide offenders than in the general population. The aim of this article is to report and to discuss a case of a patient with bipolar disorder and hypogonadism who murdered his wife shortly after a testosterone injection. Methods. A case study and a review of the relevant literature. Results. Our case study as well as several case reports in the literature suggests that testosterone administration or high testosterone levels may be associated with homicidal behavior. Conclusion. Further studies of the role of testosterone in the neurobiology of violent and homicidal behavior may lead to improvements in the prevention of homicides.

Key words::

• Bipolar disorder
• testosterone
• homicide

Acknowledgements

None.

Statement of interest

None of the authors reports conflicts of interest.