Feldkirch, Austria – A man in Austria shocked doctors when he reportedly took an axe to his own penis after consuming psychedelic mushrooms. The incident, detailed in the Mega Journal of Surgery, is the first of its kind and has raised concerns about the dangers of using such substances without proper supervision.
The 37-year-old man, who had a history of depression and alcohol abuse, ingested three to four psilocybin mushrooms while at his home alone. Psilocybin is a compound found in “magic” mushrooms that can induce hallucinatory states by altering the brain’s serotonin receptors, affecting senses and emotions.
Despite the growing interest in using psilocybin mushrooms for therapeutic purposes, the man in this case did not experience any relief from his mental health issues. Instead, he suffered a psychotic break that led to the self-inflicted harm.
Doctors at Hospital Feldkirch in Austria described the incident as a case of Klingsor syndrome, where a psychologically disturbed individual inflicts harm on their own genitals while under the influence of psychedelic substances. The man was found in critical condition after attempting self-mutilation, requiring immediate medical attention.
Following surgery to reattach the severed organ, the man was placed under the care of psychiatric professionals as he struggled with bouts of psychosis. Complications such as necrosis eventually healed, and within a few months, he regained erectile and urinary functions.
This unprecedented case has shed light on the risks associated with the unsupervised use of psychedelic substances, highlighting the importance of proper guidance and medical support when dealing with such powerful compounds. The man’s harrowing experience serves as a cautionary tale about the potential dangers of experimenting with psychedelics without the necessary precautions.