Choreoathetosis in the setting of lithium toxicity.

BACKGROUND

Lithium toxicity has been shown to cause lasting neurological sequelae in certain cases.

OBJECTIVE

The authors present a case of choreoathetosis in the aftermath of a presumed episode of lithium toxic reaction.

METHOD: The patient was treated by aggressive rehydration; lithium and, ultimately, all psychotropic medication was withheld for a period.

RESULTS

The patient showed marked improvement in orientation and movement control; however, some of the choreoathetoid symptoms persisted.

CONCLUSION

Patients on combination therapy with lithium and other psychotropics need to be closely monitored for the development of choreoathetoid and other symptoms of overmedication.