[Psychogenic polydipsia leading to water intoxication]

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Nephrology
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Psychogenic polydipsia is characterized by excessive water intake.
• It is often associated with psychiatric disorders and can lead to water intoxication.
• Biochemical and psychiatric theories attempt to explain its etiology.

Observation:

• A 48-year-old male patient with chronic paranoid schizophrenia presented with psychogenic polydipsia.
• This condition precipitated severe disturbances in his electrolyte balance.
• A rapid decrease in serum sodium concentration was noted.

Findings:

• The patient's psychogenic polydipsia and resulting electrolyte imbalance led to fatal water intoxication.
• This case underscores the severe, life-threatening potential of psychogenic polydipsia in schizophrenia.
• There is limited awareness and literature on this specific complication.

Implications:

• Clinicians should be vigilant for psychogenic polydipsia in schizophrenia patients.
• Early recognition and management of water intoxication are crucial to prevent mortality.
• Further research is needed to understand and address this dangerous complication.