The hallucinations of Frédéric Chopin

Med Humanit. 2011 Jun;37(1):5-8. doi: 10.1136/jmh.2010.005405. Epub 2011 Jan 24.

Abstract

Frédéric Chopin is the epitome of the romantic artist; he had a chronic pulmonary disease that ultimately caused his death at the age of 39. An overlooked neurological condition is discussed in this paper. We consider the possibility of a temporal lobe epilepsy, as throughout his life Chopin had hallucinatory episodes, which can accompany seizure disorders.

Publication types

  • Biography
  • Historical Article

MeSH terms

  • Epilepsy, Temporal Lobe / history*
  • Famous Persons*
  • Hallucinations / history*
  • History, 19th Century
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Music / history*
  • Poland

Personal name as subject

  • Frédéric Chopin