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Choreoathetosis in the setting of lithium toxicity
R Brett Lloyd1, Rachel E Perkins, Ann C Schwartz
1correspondence 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.
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.
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