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Lithium tremor revisited: pathophysiology and treatment
Author(s) -
Baek J. H.,
Kinrys G.,
Nierenberg A. A.
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
acta psychiatrica scandinavica
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.849
H-Index - 146
eISSN - 1600-0447
pISSN - 0001-690X
DOI - 10.1111/acps.12171
Subject(s) - lithium (medication) , essential tremor , medicine , neurological examination , differential diagnosis , pathophysiology , physical examination , pediatrics , intensive care medicine , psychiatry , pathology
Objective Tremor occurs frequently as a side‐effect of lithium, and it is, however, easily overlooked in the clinical setting. In this article, we attempt to review the pathophysiology and the clinical approach of lithium tremor. Method We searched the P ubmed and C ochrane L ibrary for relevant articles up to the year 2012. Sixty‐four articles including 10 review papers, 3 clinical trials, and 12 case reports were reviewed. Results Lithium tremor is classified as a postural tremor and subcategorized as an exaggerated physiologic tremor. Differential diagnosis includes metabolic abnormalities, benign essential tremor, P arkinson's disease, and lithium toxicity. Various methods of evaluating lithium tremor and treatment options are discussed. Conclusion When lithium tremor has developed, thorough history taking, physical examination, and blood examination including serum lithium level are needed. Pharmacotherapy is indicated only in patients with disabling tremor.