Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 16, 2026
06:47
A Murine Model of Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy
Published on: December 18, 2017
11.8K
Lithium Toxicity Following Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy: A Case Report
Abdulkader Alam1,2, Sherief Raouf1, Fernando O Recio1
1Stony Brook University School of Medicine, New York, USA.
Summary
Lithium toxicity can occur after vertical sleeve gastrectomy. Closer monitoring of lithium levels is crucial for patients with bipolar disorder undergoing bariatric surgery.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Psychiatry
- Bariatric Surgery
Background:
- Lithium is a common mood stabilizer for bipolar disorder.
- Bariatric surgery, including vertical sleeve gastrectomy, is increasingly performed.
- The pharmacokinetic changes after bariatric surgery can affect drug metabolism and excretion.
Observation:
- An 18-year-old female with a history of bipolar disorder was treated with lithium.
- The patient underwent vertical sleeve gastrectomy surgery.
- Following surgery, the patient developed symptoms consistent with lithium toxicity.
Findings:
- This is the first documented case of lithium toxicity after vertical sleeve gastrectomy.
- The altered physiology post-surgery likely contributed to impaired lithium clearance.
- Lithium levels were significantly elevated, necessitating dose adjustment and close monitoring.
Implications:
- Psychiatrists and surgeons must be aware of the risk of lithium toxicity in patients post-bariatric surgery.
- Regular and vigilant monitoring of lithium levels is essential after vertical sleeve gastrectomy.
- Medication dosages, including lithium, may require careful adjustment following bariatric procedures to prevent adverse events.
