Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 31, 2026
08:10
A Mouse Model of Subchronic and Mild Social Defeat Stress for Understanding Stress-induced Behavioral and Physiological Deficits
Published on: November 24, 2015
Polydipsia and psychosis in subdural haemorrhage
1Leeds PFT, Becklin Centre, Alma Street, Leeds LS9 7BE, UK.
BMJ Case Reports
|June 21, 2011
Summary
This case report highlights an unusual presentation of chronic mental illness with polydipsia and atypical psychotic symptoms. It emphasizes the importance of investigating organic causes in psychiatric patients, especially with novel symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Clinical Case Reports
- Neuropsychiatry
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Chronic mental illness can present with diverse symptoms.
- Atypical presentations in established patients warrant thorough investigation.
- Organic etiologies are sometimes overlooked in psychiatric diagnoses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report an unusual case of chronic mental illness with atypical symptoms.
- To underscore the importance of considering organic causes in psychiatric presentations.
- To emphasize timely and appropriate investigations in complex cases.
Main Methods:
- Case study of a patient with chronic mental illness.
- Clinical observation of polydipsia and unusual psychotic symptoms.
- Review of diagnostic challenges and interprofessional communication.
Main Results:
- An unusual constellation of polydipsia and atypical psychotic symptoms was observed.
- The case illustrates potential diagnostic challenges in identifying organic causes.
- Effective communication between medical professionals is crucial.
Conclusions:
- Physicians must remain vigilant for organic causes of mental illness, even in familiar patients.
- Unusual symptoms necessitate a broad differential diagnosis.
- Timely investigations and interdisciplinary collaboration are vital for optimal patient care.
Related Concept Videos
01:22Diabetes Insipidus II: Pathophysiology
Normally, water balance is maintained through three interconnected mechanisms: the hypothalamic thirst center, the synthesis and release of antidiuretic hormone (ADH, or vasopressin), and the kidneys' responsiveness to this hormone. ADH is synthesized in the hypothalamus, released from the posterior pituitary, and acts on the distal nephron, allowing water reabsorption and concentrated urine production.Diabetes Insipidus and Its TypesIn diabetes insipidus (DI), this regulatory system is...
01:29Diabetes Insipidus I: Introduction
Definition Diabetes insipidus is a disorder marked by the production of large amounts of dilute urine because of impaired vasopressin production, release, or kidney response. The lack of effective vasopressin action limits water reabsorption in the renal collecting ducts, which leads to excessive urinary water loss and intense thirst.Clinical PresentationIndividuals with diabetes insipidus report persistent thirst and very high urine output. In severe cases, fluid intake can reach up to 20...
01:29Hemorrhagic Stroke ll: Pathophysiology
A hemorrhagic stroke develops when a cerebral blood vessel ruptures, allowing blood to escape into the surrounding brain tissue, as in intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), or into the subarachnoid space, as in subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Because the skull is a rigid compartment, the sudden presence of extravascular blood rapidly increases intracranial pressure and compresses adjacent neural structures, leading to immediate tissue injury and impaired cerebral perfusion.Mass Effect and Primary...
01:22Dementia l: Introduction
Dementia is an acquired, progressive syndrome characterized by a decline in multiple cognitive domains severe enough to impair daily functioning and reduce independence. Although memory loss is a central feature, the diagnosis requires additional deficits involving language, executive function, visuospatial skills, judgment, calculation, or abstract reasoning. These cognitive impairments reflect underlying neurodegenerative or vascular processes that gradually disrupt neuronal networks...
01:17Hemorrhagic Stroke l: Introduction
A hemorrhagic stroke is an acute neurological event that occurs when a weakened cerebral blood vessel ruptures, allowing blood to accumulate within or around the brain. The sudden release of blood forms a focal hematoma that increases intracranial pressure, displaces neural tissue, and can obstruct cerebrospinal fluid pathways. These effects may be compounded by intraventricular extension of the hemorrhage, cerebral edema, or compression of adjacent structures, all of which contribute to...
01:21Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic State
Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic State, or HHS, is a serious and life-threatening complication of type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is characterized by three main features: severe hyperglycemia, profound dehydration, and elevated serum osmolality, all occurring without significant ketoacidosis.HHS typically develops in older adults or individuals with limited access to fluids. This may result from illness, cognitive impairment, or medications such as diuretics or corticosteroids. These factors reduce...