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.