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Chloroquine psychosis masquerading as PCP: a case report
Gregory B Collins1, Mark S McAllister
1Alcohol and Drug Recovery Center, Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA. colling@ccf.org
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs
|August 30, 2008
Summary
Chloroquine, used for malaria and autoimmune diseases, can cause toxic psychosis. This condition can mimic phencyclidine (PCP) intoxication, making diagnosis challenging for clinicians.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Toxicology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Chloroquine and its derivatives are established antimalarials and are used for rheumatologic conditions.
- Increased international travel and online pharmacies make chloroquine more accessible, necessitating awareness of its toxicity.
- Clinicians must be aware of potential adverse effects, including neuropsychiatric complications.
Observation:
- A case report details an adolescent female experiencing acute toxic psychosis after chloroquine use.
- The patient's presentation and laboratory findings were similar to phencyclidine (PCP) intoxication.
- Differentiating chloroquine-induced psychosis from PCP intoxication can be challenging in acute settings.
Findings:
- Chloroquine-induced toxic psychosis presents with symptoms that can be mistaken for PCP intoxication.
- Review of the literature highlights the clinical syndrome of chloroquine-induced psychosis.
- Differential diagnosis between chloroquine and PCP toxicity is crucial for appropriate management.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering drug toxicity in psychiatric presentations.
- Awareness of chloroquine's neuropsychiatric side effects is vital for physicians, especially those treating patients with malaria or rheumatologic disorders.
- Further research may be needed to elucidate the mechanisms of chloroquine-induced psychosis and improve diagnostic strategies.
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