Nosological implications of psychotic symptoms in patients with established posttraumatic stress disorder.
OBJECTIVE
We describe three patients with chronic posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) who later developed psychotic symptoms. The nosological implications are discussed.


METHODS
All three patients had no prior history of psychotic illness. The content of the psychotic symptoms was restricted to core features of the traumatic experiences which initially led to PTSD.


METHODS
The patients received low-dose antipsychotic medications in addition to other treatments for PTSD and/or depression.


RESULTS
All three patients developed severe extrapyramidal side effects, particularly akathisia, and discontinued drug treatment.


CONCLUSIONS
Psychotic symptoms occasionally can complicate chronic PTSD, but uncertainty remains about their aetiology and nosological status.
Chan
A O
AO
Woodbridge Hospital & Institute of Mental Health, Singapore, Republic of Singapore. chanom@pacific.net.sg
Silove
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D000328:Adult; D014150:Antipsychotic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002908:Chronic Disease; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011569:Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; D011613:Psychotherapy; D011618:Psychotic Disorders / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D013313:Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000523:psychology*
D014150:Antipsychotic Agents