Edward H Karl1, Frederick A Curro2. 1. Private practice, West Hartford and Glastonbury, CT. 2. PEARL (Practitioners Engaged in Applied Research and Learning) Practice-Based Research Network, New York University, College of Dentistry, New York, NY.
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Antibiotics are a class of medications widely used by dentists. The class of agents has a number of listed side effects. This case report details an unusual adverse effect of tetracycline-induced psychosis recognized due to the diligence of a practitioner. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case by a dentist. CASE PRESENTATION: A 44-year-old patient was started on tetracycline therapy for prophylaxis before a periodontal procedure. The patient began having paranoid and psychotic experiences. The patient sought psychiatric medical care and was diagnosed with tetracycline-induced psychosis. He was treated with an antipsychotic drug, which resolved his symptoms. CONCLUSION: Dental medical histories are a resource that is underused and can often be of value in the continual assessment of drug safety and pharmacovigilance.
INTRODUCTION: Antibiotics are a class of medications widely used by dentists. The class of agents has a number of listed side effects. This case report details an unusual adverse effect of tetracycline-induced psychosis recognized due to the diligence of a practitioner. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case by a dentist. CASE PRESENTATION: A 44-year-old patient was started on tetracycline therapy for prophylaxis before a periodontal procedure. The patient began having paranoid and psychotic experiences. The patient sought psychiatric medical care and was diagnosed with tetracycline-induced psychosis. He was treated with an antipsychotic drug, which resolved his symptoms. CONCLUSION: Dental medical histories are a resource that is underused and can often be of value in the continual assessment of drug safety and pharmacovigilance.