Syndrome of Irreversible Lithium-Effectuated Neurotoxicity (SILENT): A Preventable Cerebellar Disorder

We report a case study of a 60-year-old man with bipolar disorder on stable lithium treatment who developed severe toxicity while admitted to ICU with sepsis and multiorgan failure. Despite unchanged lithium administration, his serum levels escalated due to renal dysfunction, resulting in lithium toxicity. After regaining consciousness, he exhibited a cerebellar syndrome marked by ataxia, tremor, and scanning speech. MRI revealed cerebellar atrophy. Following discontinuation of lithium and hemodialysis, the patient's symptoms remained static. The patient was diagnosed with syndrome of irreversible lithium-effectuated neurotoxicity (SILENT), a chronic cerebellar disorder characterized by persistent ataxia, nystagmus, and gait abnormalities extending beyond two months post-lithium exposure. The disorder has a predilection for cerebellar and basal ganglia dysfunction. MRI findings include cerebellar gliosis and atrophy and leptomeningeal enhancement. This case report highlights that SILENT is both preventable and permanent, urging heightened awareness among clinicians to facilitate early detection and intervention. Patients on lithium with compromised renal function or fever necessitate vigilant lithium level monitoring, dose adjustment, or cessation, to forestall enduring morbidity. This case emphasizes the significance of recognizing and managing SILENT, particularly in critical care settings, to mitigate long-term cerebellar impairment and optimize patient outcomes.