[Organic schizophreniform disorder with pre-existing autoimmune thyroiditis]

Abstract

We report the case of a 63-year-old patient with sudden onset of an acute syndrome of auditory hallucinations and delusions. Considering the anamnesis, course of the illness, and organopathologic results, we assumed an organic schizophreniform disorder within the scope of pre-existing autoimmune thyroiditis. Under treatment with high-potency neuroleptics, we observed partial regression and, after strumectomy, complete regression of the psychotic symptoms. Apparently, the acute organic schizophreniform disorder was caused by a changed metabolic situation with a transition to hyperthyroidism coinciding with beginning a small dose of antithyroid drugs.