An apathetic child with hallucinations

Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) is a potent, hallucinogenic substance that distorts the perception, state of consciousness and behaviour of the user. LSD poisonings are rare in children and may be difficult to recognise based on clinical symptoms alone.

A young boy was admitted to the hospital because of bizarre behaviour and reduced responsiveness towards his parents. At first, he was agitated. Later he fell silent and became apathetic. He suffered from ataxia and showed signs of visual hallucinations. A conclusive diagnosis of LSD poisoning was made possible through targeted and specific laboratory testing of blood and urine samples. The patient recovered completely without any specific treatment.

We urge doctors who examine paediatric patients with acute and unexplained neuropsychiatric symptoms or abnormal behaviour to consider drug intoxication as a possible differential diagnosis. Blood and urine samples from such patients should be obtained as soon as possible and analysed for a broad spectrum of substances. No antidote exists for LSD. If sedation is required due to convulsions, tachycardia, agitation, or frightening hallucinations, treatment with a benzodiazepine, such as diazepam or midazolam, is recommended.