Work

Diagnostic Pitfalls in psychiatry: misdiagnosed psychosis in a patient with intellectual disability- a case report

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Introduction and importance: Misdiagnosis is a substantial obstacle in psychiatry, often exposing patients to unwarranted risks. Case presentation: We present a 35-year-old male with longstanding developmental delays who was repeatedly diagnosed with psychosis and treated with antipsychotics. He developed catatonia during his course of treatment. A thorough re-evaluation, incorporating developmental history and neuropsychological assessment, confirmed intellectual disability rather than primary psychosis. Clinical discussion: This example illustrates how diagnostic overshadowing and neglecting developmental history can result in treatment errors, such as catatonia due to improper antipsychotic medication. The results were much better after the right diagnosis and a move to psychosocial and behavioral therapy. Conclusion: A comprehensive developmental history and periodic diagnostic reassessment are essential in psychiatry to prevent harmful misdiagnosis and optimize patient care.

Source: Annals of Medicine and Surgery

DOI: 10.1097/ms9.0000000000004378