title: The clinical manifestations of lithium intoxication.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Lithium has been a part of the psychiatric pharmacopoeia for more than half a century. Its efficacy is marred by a narrow therapeutic index and significant toxicity.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  To increase physicians' awareness of the various manifestations of lithium intoxication.
  
  
  METHODS
  We reviewed the clinical data of cases of lithium poisoning occurring in a municipal hospital during a 10 year period.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Eight patient records were located. The mortality rate was 12.5%. All patients were women and the mean age was 66.4 years. The most common symptoms were neurologic. One illustrative case is described in detail with lithium serum levels showing the usual two-phase decline.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Lithium poisoning can present in many forms. Increased physician awareness and the early use of effective treatment, mainly hemodialysis, will prevent mortality and protracted morbidity associated with this condition.
authors: Department of Internal Medicine E, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel. meltzere@matav.net.il
authors: Eyal
authors: E
authors: Meltzer
authors: Shmuel
authors: S
authors: Steinlauf
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D005260:Female; D006760:Hospitalization; D006801:Humans; D007902:Length of Stay; D008094:Lithium / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000097:blood / Q000506:poisoning*; D008499:Medical Records; D008875:Middle Aged; D009026:Mortality
chemical_list: D008094:Lithium