[Lithium-induced electrolyte disturbances and catatonia]
Hjalte Knudsen1, Torben Albert Devantier1, Søren Dinesen Østergaars1,2
1Afdeling for Depression og Angst, Aarhus Universitetshospital.
Abstract:
In this case report, a 57-year-old man with bipolar disorder on long-term lithium treatment was admitted with catatonia. Laboratory tests revealed hypercalcemia with parathyroid hormone levels in the upper third of the normal reference interval, consistent with lithium-associated hyperparathyroidism, as well as nephrogenic diabetes insipidus. Pausing lithium and treating hypercalcemia led to a gradual improvement in catatonia. The case emphasises the importance of considering endocrine and electrolyte disturbances in cases of acute deterioration of psychiatric symptoms during lithium treatment.
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