The facts of the case refer to the cruel, inhumane and degrading treatment, and subsequent death, suffered by Damião Ximenes Lopes while he was receiving psychiatric medical attention in a private health facility which was a provider of services to the public health system. The death of the victim occurred 3 days after he was admitted to the facility.

The State carried out an act of international acknowledgement for its partial responsibility in the violation of the right to personal integrity of the victim.

The IA Court developed standards regarding the international responsibility of the State for particular acts, and the State duty to regulate and audit health services provided by third parties.It also established standards in relation to the rights of persons with mental disabilities, particularly in relation to their right to receive medical attention of an effective nature, and appropriate to their situation.