To present a case of persistent cerebellar dysfunction following acute lithium toxicity and discuss its clinical features and implications in conjunction with relevant literature.
Key Findings:
The patient developed persistent symptoms of dysarthria, dizziness, vertigo, diplopia, and unsteady gait after acute lithium toxicity.
Initial treatment included gastric lavage, fluid resuscitation, and management of seizures and other complications, with specific outcomes noted.
This case highlights the risk of persistent neurological deficits, particularly cerebellar dysfunction, following acute lithium overdose, even after lithium levels return to normal, emphasizing the need for ongoing monitoring.
Limitations:
The case is based on a single patient, limiting generalizability.
Long-term follow-up data may not fully capture the extent of recovery or ongoing symptoms, and potential biases should be considered.
Conclusion:
Persistent cerebellar impairment can occur after acute lithium overdose, necessitating awareness and appropriate rehabilitation strategies to support recovery and monitoring for long-term effects.