Acute generalized polyneuropathy accompanying lithium poisoning

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Toxicology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Lithium is a common mood stabilizer.
• Previous research suggests lithium can impact peripheral nerve function.
• The neurotoxic effects of lithium are not fully understood.

Observation:

• A patient presented with typical lithium toxicity symptoms.
• The patient also exhibited severe generalized sensorimotor peripheral neuropathy.
• Neuropathy symptoms resolved completely after lithium discontinuation.

Findings:

• Electrodiagnostic studies indicated axonal lesions in the peripheral nerves.
• Autopsy revealed no persistent abnormalities ten months post-recovery.
• This case is the first to report peripheral neuropathy directly associated with lithium toxicity.

Implications:

• Lithium toxicity can manifest with significant peripheral neuropathy.
• Prompt recognition and lithium withdrawal are crucial for recovery.
• Further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms of lithium-induced neuropathy.