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The case of an 18 year old Algerian girl with acrocyanosis of the four extremities since childhood and presenting a with 6 months history of oedema of the left hand resulting in severe functional handicap, is reported. Clinically, the oedema suggested a lymphatic origin. However, its localised, strictly unilateral distribution, the normality of vascular investigations, the absence of pain and regression of the oedema during the period of hospitalisation suggested autoaggression. The discovery of tourniquet marks on the skin of the thigh confirmed the diagnosis of Charcot's blue oedema. The patient has a hysterical personality, was of higher than normal intelligence but immature, and could only express herself through her functional handicap, a cry for affection in a rigid family environment only concerned by her scholastic achievements. To our knowledge, there have been 27 other reports of this condition since Charcot's first description in 1890. The majority concerned young intelligent women. Diagnosis is difficult and can only be confirmed by the finding of tourniquet marks on the skin. Psychotherapy is often useful as an underlying neurotic or psychotic personality is commonly found.