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Pisa syndrome mistaken for conversion in an adolescent
C G Fichtner1, B M Pechter, T H Jobe
1Loyola University Stritch School of Medicine, Illinois 60141.
The British Journal of Psychiatry : the Journal of Mental Science
|December 1, 1992
Summary
Acute dystonia, a movement disorder, can mimic Pisa syndrome in adolescents after antiemetic medication. This case highlights the importance of recognizing drug-induced dystonic reactions and avoiding misdiagnosis as functional disorders.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pharmacology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Antiemetic medications are commonly prescribed postoperatively.
- Acute dystonia is a potential adverse drug reaction.
- Pisa syndrome is characterized by involuntary trunk deviation.
Observation:
- An adolescent presented with symptoms consistent with Pisa syndrome postoperatively.
- The symptoms emerged after administration of antiemetic drugs.
- The condition was initially misdiagnosed as a conversion disorder.
Findings:
- The case illustrates a drug-induced acute dystonia presenting as Pisa syndrome.
- Misinterpretation of dystonic reactions as functional disorders can occur.
- Adolescents are a vulnerable population for such adverse events.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider drug-induced dystonia in postoperative patients, especially adolescents.
- Accurate diagnosis of dystonic reactions is crucial to avoid inappropriate treatment.
- This case underscores the need for heightened awareness of extrapyramidal side effects of antiemetics.