The Syndrome of Irreversible Lithium-Effectuated Neurotoxicity (SILENT)

Abstract

Though the acute complications of lithium toxicity involving the central nervous system have been known for more than 70 years, it is only recently that the longlasting sequelae of lithium intoxication have come to be discussed at length; about fifty-five cases have been reported so far. The acronym SILENT (Syndrome of Irreversible Lithium-Effectuated Neurotoxicity) has been coined recently to denote these sequelae. The present report describes the typical profile of SILENT (persisting cerebellar dysfunction) and suggests measures to decrease the incidence of this potentially serious condition, for which no definitive treatment is available.