R Brett Lloyd1, Rachel E Perkins, Ann C Schwartz. 1. correspondence and M.D., Dept. of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, 80 Jesse Hill Jr. Dr., P.O. Box 26238, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Lithium toxicity has been shown to cause lasting neurological sequelae in certain cases. OBJECTIVE: The authors present a case of choreoathetosis in the aftermath of a presumed episode of lithium toxic reaction. METHOD: The patient was treated by aggressive rehydration; lithium and, ultimately, all psychotropic medication was withheld for a period. RESULTS: The patient showed marked improvement in orientation and movement control; however, some of the choreoathetoid symptoms persisted. CONCLUSION: Patients on combination therapy with lithium and other psychotropics need to be closely monitored for the development of choreoathetoid and other symptoms of overmedication.
BACKGROUND:Lithiumtoxicity has been shown to cause lasting neurological sequelae in certain cases. OBJECTIVE: The authors present a case of choreoathetosis in the aftermath of a presumed episode of lithium toxic reaction. METHOD: The patient was treated by aggressive rehydration; lithium and, ultimately, all psychotropic medication was withheld for a period. RESULTS: The patient showed marked improvement in orientation and movement control; however, some of the choreoathetoid symptoms persisted. CONCLUSION:Patients on combination therapy with lithium and other psychotropics need to be closely monitored for the development of choreoathetoid and other symptoms of overmedication.