The Lithium Toxic Patient in the Medical Hospital: Diagnostic and Management Dilemmas

Abstract

Objective:

Patients with lithium toxicity can pose difficulties in diagnosis and management in the general hospital setting. The authors examined patients who were referred to the Psychiatric Consultation-Liaison Service with suspicion of lithium overdose to delineate and characterize medical and psychiatric risk factors for toxicity and to follow the course and resolution of their toxicity.

Method:

The authors reviewed the charts of patients with lithium levels >1.5 mEq/L who were admitted consecutively to a general hospital over an 18-month period.

Results:

Of twelve patients, eight were found to have developed lithium toxicity due to incidental and iatrogenic factors. These patients presented with a variety of confusing signs and symptoms. Hypothyroidism and coexisting organic illness contributed to the lack of clarity in their clinical picture.

Conclusion:

The widening scope of indication for lithium therapy leads to increased risk of toxic reactions which challenge the diagnostic skills of the consulting psychiatrist in a general hospital setting.