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Severe dysphagia associated with major tranquillizer treatment
T A Hughes1, G Shone, G Lindsay
1Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Wales, Heath Park, Cardiff, UK.
Postgraduate Medical Journal
|August 1, 1994
Summary
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients on antipsychotics may develop severe dysphagia. Stopping haloperidol improved swallowing, suggesting regular monitoring for patients on tranquilizers.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Rheumatology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) can present with neuropsychiatric complications.
- Dysphagia, weight loss, and aspiration are severe potential outcomes.
Observation:
- A 56-year-old female patient with SLE experienced severe dysphagia.
- This complication was linked to the introduction of haloperidol in her treatment regimen.
Findings:
- Withdrawal of haloperidol resulted in significant and objective improvement in the patient's swallowing function.
- Major tranquilizers, such as haloperidol, may precipitate severe dysphagia in susceptible individuals.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider the risk of dysphagia in patients treated with major tranquilizers.
- Regular clinical assessment of swallowing function is recommended for patients on these medications.