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A case report of benzodiazepine withdrawal delirium due to accidental discontinuation of benzodiazepines in cancer perioperative period

  • 0Department of Psycho-Oncology National Cancer Center Hospital Tokyo Japan.
Pcn Reports : Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences +

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October 22, 2024

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October 22, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Sudden benzodiazepine discontinuation in cancer patients can cause withdrawal delirium. Healthcare providers must recognize this risk and avoid abrupt cessation, especially before surgery, to ensure patient safety.

Area Of Science

  • Oncology
  • Geriatrics
  • Pharmacology

Background

  • Benzodiazepines carry a risk of delirium, particularly in elderly patients and perioperatively.
  • The risk of delirium from abrupt benzodiazepine withdrawal is often underestimated in cancer care settings.
  • Healthcare professionals may not fully recognize the dangers of sudden benzodiazepine cessation in cancer patients.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To highlight the underappreciated risk of benzodiazepine withdrawal delirium in cancer patients undergoing treatment.
  • To emphasize the potential complications of abrupt benzodiazepine discontinuation in the perioperative period for cancer patients.
  • To advocate for increased awareness and education among healthcare workers regarding benzodiazepine withdrawal in oncology.

Main Methods

  • Case presentation of a rectal cancer patient with a history of long-term benzodiazepine use.
  • Description of the patient's abrupt benzodiazepine discontinuation prior to surgery.
  • Observation of severe withdrawal symptoms and subsequent diagnosis of delirium.

Main Results

  • Abrupt discontinuation of etizolam and alprazolam led to severe withdrawal symptoms, including disorientation and agitation.
  • The patient was diagnosed with delirium secondary to benzodiazepine withdrawal.
  • Re-administration of benzodiazepines resolved the withdrawal symptoms, allowing for safe surgical procedure.
  • Mild postoperative delirium occurred but did not impede surgical success.

Conclusions

  • Rapid benzodiazepine cessation before cancer surgery poses a significant risk of withdrawal delirium.
  • Managing psychiatric symptoms perioperatively becomes more complex with withdrawal delirium.
  • Highlighting withdrawal risks and providing re-education for healthcare workers is crucial in cancer treatment settings.

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