Open AccessSubtle neuropsychiatric symptoms of glioblastoma multiforme misdiagnosed as depression
Author(s) -
Raphael J. Leo,
Jill N Frodey,
Matthew L Ruggieri
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
bmj case reports
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.231
H-Index - 26
ISSN - 1757-790X
DOI - 10.1136/bcr-2019-233208
Subject(s) - medicine , depression (economics) , glioblastoma , neuroimaging , psychiatry , neurology , neuropsychiatry , quality of life (healthcare) , pediatrics , nursing , cancer research , economics , macroeconomics
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common of the aggressive primary brain tumours arising in adults and has a dire prognosis. Neuropsychiatric symptoms can vary significantly among afflicted persons; psychiatric disturbances may be the predominant presenting symptoms. Distinguishing between functional psychiatric disorders, particularly depression, from other subtle neuropsychiatric disturbances that may accompany GBM can be challenging. The authors present a clinical case and review of the literature in an attempt to highlight the special considerations that should be taken into account when evaluating patients who present with late-onset or atypical symptoms, refractory psychiatric symptoms, or subtle neurological disturbances signalling the need for diagnostic assessment, particularly neuroimaging, for the presence of a tumour. Early diagnosis is critical for improvement in quality of life.