[Paroxysmal perceptual alteration. An unknown side effect of antipsychotics?]

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Pharmacology
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Antipsychotic medications can cause various side effects.
• Paroxysmal perceptual alteration (PPA) is an underrecognized syndrome linked to antipsychotic use.
• PPA involves distressing perceptual distortions, often with severe tension and anxiety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a case of PPA in a patient experiencing various antipsychotics.
• To discuss the symptoms, prevalence, diagnosis, pathophysiology, and treatment of PPA.
• To enhance clinical awareness and management strategies for this adverse effect.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a 32-year-old male patient.
• Literature review and discussion of PPA based on the presented case.
• Analysis of symptoms, differential diagnosis, and potential treatment options.

Main Results:

• The patient developed disabling PPA in response to multiple antipsychotics.
• PPA symptoms included significant perceptual distortions, tension, and anxiety.
• Discussion highlights the need for better recognition and management protocols.

Conclusions:

• PPA is a potentially severe and disabling side effect of antipsychotics.
• Early recognition and appropriate management are crucial for patient well-being.
• Further research is needed to understand PPA's prevalence and pathophysiology.