Comprehensive Symptom Navigator

Acute Psychosis

Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care

Category: Psychiatric and Behavioral Emergencies

Symptoms:
delusions; hallucinations; disorganized thinking; paranoia; agitation; social withdrawal; difficulty distinguishing reality

Root Cause:
Often associated with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, substance-induced psychosis, severe stress, or medical conditions like brain injuries or infections.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, psychiatric history, ruling out organic causes through lab tests (e.g., toxicology screening, thyroid function tests), and imaging (e.g., CT/MRI).

Treatment:
Rapid tranquilization (if agitated), antipsychotic medications, addressing underlying causes, and supportive psychotherapy.

Medications:
Antipsychotics (e.g., haloperidol , olanzapine , risperidone ), benzodiazepines (e.g., lorazepam for agitation), and mood stabilizers (e.g., valproate for bipolar-related psychosis).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Approximately 3% of the population experiences a psychotic episode during their lifetime.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of psychosis, substance use (e.g., cannabis, hallucinogens), sleep deprivation, severe stress, or trauma.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable depending on the underlying cause; with treatment, many recover fully from a first episode, but chronic conditions require long-term management.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Self-harm, harm to others, difficulty maintaining relationships, job loss, homelessness.

Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome

Specialty: Toxicology

Category: Acute Poisoning

Sub-category: Alcohol-Related Toxicity

Symptoms:
tremors; sweating; anxiety; nausea; vomiting; seizures; hallucinations; delirium tremens

Root Cause:
Sudden cessation or reduction of chronic alcohol consumption leading to central nervous system hyperactivity due to downregulated GABA and upregulated glutamate pathways.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, assessment using tools like the Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for Alcohol (CIWA-Ar) scale, and ruling out other causes of symptoms.

Treatment:
Benzodiazepines (e.g., diazepam, lorazepam), thiamine to prevent Wernicke’s encephalopathy, and supportive care.

Medications:
Diazepam or lorazepam (benzodiazepines) are first-line treatments to control withdrawal symptoms and prevent seizures. Thiamine (vitamin B1) is used to prevent neurological complications.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs in approximately 50% of individuals with chronic alcohol use disorder who suddenly stop drinking. Severe forms (delirium tremens) occur in about 5%.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic alcohol use, history of withdrawal seizures, concurrent illness, electrolyte imbalances, malnutrition.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With treatment, symptoms resolve within a few days; untreated severe withdrawal can be life-threatening.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Seizures, delirium tremens, Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, arrhythmias, death.

Delirium Tremens

Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care

Category: Psychiatric and Behavioral Emergencies

Sub-category: Substance-Related Crises

Symptoms:
severe agitation; confusion; hallucinations; fever; sweating; tachycardia; hypertension; seizures

Root Cause:
Acute severe alcohol withdrawal resulting in central nervous system hyperactivity, involving dysregulated neurotransmitter activity (reduced GABA and excessive glutamate).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation based on history of alcohol use, presenting symptoms, and ruling out other causes of delirium through lab tests and imaging if necessary.

Treatment:
High-dose benzodiazepines, IV fluids, thiamine, magnesium, and antipsychotics for severe agitation or psychosis. ICU-level monitoring may be required for severe cases.

Medications:
Benzodiazepines (e.g., lorazepam , diazepam , chlordiazepoxide ) are used for sedation and symptom control. Antipsychotics (e.g., haloperidol ) may help with hallucinations or severe agitation. Thiamine to prevent or treat Wernicke's encephalopathy.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs in 5% of patients undergoing alcohol withdrawal; more common in individuals with chronic, severe alcohol dependence.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Long-term heavy alcohol use, history of delirium tremens, concurrent medical illness, and poor nutritional status.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Life-threatening if untreated; with aggressive treatment, the prognosis improves significantly, but mortality still ranges from 1-4%.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Arrhythmias, respiratory failure, aspiration pneumonia, cardiovascular collapse, and Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome.

Delirium

Specialty: Mental Health and Psychology

Category: Emergency

Sub-category: Cognitive Disorders

Symptoms:
confusion; disorientation; hallucinations; restlessness; fluctuating levels of consciousness; impaired attention

Root Cause:
Acute disturbance in brain function, often caused by an underlying medical condition, medication, or substance withdrawal.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, including history, physical examination, and laboratory tests to identify contributing factors. Use of diagnostic tools like the Confusion Assessment Method (CAM).

Treatment:
Treating the underlying cause (e.g., infection, electrolyte imbalance); supportive care to ensure safety and minimize distress.

Medications:
Antipsychotics like haloperidol or quetiapine for severe agitation; benzodiazepines for delirium caused by alcohol withdrawal.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in hospitalized patients, especially older adults; occurs in up to 50% of elderly individuals post-surgery.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Advanced age, pre-existing cognitive impairment, severe illness, substance abuse, or multiple medications.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Reversible with prompt treatment of the underlying cause; delayed treatment may result in prolonged symptoms or complications.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Long-term cognitive decline, increased risk of institutionalization, and higher mortality rates in severe cases.

Psychosis (Secondary to Dementia or Other Conditions)

Specialty: Senior Health and Geriatrics

Category: Mental Health Disorders

Sub-category: Other Psychiatric Conditions

Symptoms:
hallucinations; delusions; paranoia; disorganized thinking; agitation; social withdrawal

Root Cause:
Dysregulation of brain neurotransmitters, often associated with neurodegenerative changes in dementia or secondary to metabolic, infectious, or medication-related causes.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, including history, mental status examination, and assessment for underlying causes. Neuroimaging or lab tests may be needed to rule out secondary factors.

Treatment:
Managing the underlying cause, behavioral interventions, caregiver education, and cautious use of medications.

Medications:
Antipsychotics like risperidone or quetiapine (second-generation antipsychotics) are commonly prescribed, with consideration of risks such as increased mortality in dementia-related psychosis.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs in 10-25% of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and up to 50% in other dementia subtypes like Lewy body dementia.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Advanced age, preexisting dementia, severe cognitive decline, sensory impairments, and environmental stressors.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Symptoms may fluctuate, and prognosis depends on addressing the underlying cause. Chronic psychosis is associated with increased caregiver burden and institutionalization.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Higher risk of injury, worsened cognitive decline, poor quality of life, and caregiver stress.

Schizophrenia

Specialty: Mental Health and Psychology

Category: Adult

Symptoms:
hallucinations; delusions; disorganized speech; lack of motivation; social withdrawal; cognitive impairments

Root Cause:
Thought to result from a combination of genetic predisposition, neurochemical imbalances (dopamine dysfunction), and environmental triggers.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Based on DSM-5 criteria, including at least two core symptoms for six months; exclusion of other causes.

Treatment:
Antipsychotic medications, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and social skills training.

Medications:
Second-generation antipsychotics (e.g., aripiprazole , clozapine , quetiapine ) are preferred due to fewer side effects compared to first-generation drugs.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects about 1% of the global population, with onset typically in late adolescence or early adulthood.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, prenatal exposure to infections or malnutrition, urban living, and substance abuse.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Chronic, with periodic exacerbations; early treatment and adherence improve outcomes.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Suicide, homelessness, unemployment, and social isolation.

Methamphetamine toxicity

Specialty: Toxicology

Category: Acute Poisoning

Sub-category: Chemical Poisoning

Symptoms:
agitation; paranoia; tachycardia; hypertension; hyperthermia; seizures; hallucinations; chest pain

Root Cause:
Overstimulation of the central nervous system and cardiovascular system due to increased release of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical presentation and history of methamphetamine use; confirmed by urine or blood toxicology testing.

Treatment:
Supportive care, cooling measures for hyperthermia, sedation with benzodiazepines, intravenous fluids, and treatment for cardiovascular and neurological complications.

Medications:
Benzodiazepines (e.g., midazolam or lorazepam ) for agitation and seizures; antipsychotics (e.g., haloperidol ) for psychosis if benzodiazepines are insufficient; antihypertensives like nitroprusside or labetalol for severe hypertension.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Methamphetamine use is rising globally, contributing significantly to emergency room visits and overdose deaths.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-dose use, mixing with other drugs, preexisting heart or psychiatric conditions, and chronic methamphetamine abuse.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With prompt treatment, outcomes are often favorable, but long-term neurological or cardiovascular damage is possible.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Stroke, myocardial infarction, rhabdomyolysis, kidney failure, and persistent psychosis.

LSD and hallucinogen-related toxicity

Specialty: Toxicology

Category: Acute Poisoning

Sub-category: Chemical Poisoning

Symptoms:
hallucinations; anxiety; paranoia; tachycardia; hypertension; dilated pupils; nausea; psychosis

Root Cause:
Overactivation of serotonin receptors in the brain, leading to altered perception, mood, and cognition.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation and history of hallucinogen use; toxicology testing may help exclude other substances.

Treatment:
Supportive care, benzodiazepines for agitation or psychosis, and observation in a calm environment.

Medications:
Benzodiazepines (e.g., lorazepam ) for severe agitation or psychosis; antipsychotics (e.g., haloperidol ) if benzodiazepines are insufficient.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Hallucinogen use is less common than other recreational drugs but can lead to significant toxicity in high doses.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-dose use, preexisting mental health disorders, and polydrug use.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally favorable with supportive care, but psychological complications may persist.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Persistent psychosis, hallucination-persisting perception disorder (HPPD), and traumatic injuries during hallucinations.

Deadly nightshade (atropine) poisoning

Specialty: Toxicology

Category: Biological and Natural Toxins

Sub-category: Plant Toxins

Symptoms:
dry mouth; blurred vision; difficulty swallowing; rapid heart rate; hallucinations; severe agitation; urinary retention; seizures

Root Cause:
Atropine is an anticholinergic compound that blocks the effects of acetylcholine at muscarinic receptors, leading to nervous system dysfunction.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history of ingestion, characteristic anticholinergic symptoms, and confirmation through toxicology tests if needed.

Treatment:
Activated charcoal (for recent ingestion), supportive care, and physostigmine (a cholinesterase inhibitor) as an antidote.

Medications:
Physostigmine (cholinesterase inhibitor), benzodiazepines (for seizures or agitation), and IV fluids for hydration.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; typically due to accidental ingestion of berries or leaves or intentional misuse.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Proximity to or handling of deadly nightshade plants; young children or pets at higher risk of accidental ingestion.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with early treatment; severe cases can lead to coma or death without intervention.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Coma, respiratory failure, severe dehydration, or cardiac complications (e.g., arrhythmias).

Porphyria-related toxicity

Specialty: Toxicology

Category: Endogenous Toxins

Sub-category: Hematologic Disorders

Symptoms:
abdominal pain; nausea; vomiting; constipation; dark urine; seizures; muscle weakness; anxiety; hallucinations

Root Cause:
Accumulation of porphyrins or their precursors due to a defect in the heme biosynthesis pathway, leading to neurotoxicity and other systemic effects.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Urine and blood tests for porphyrins and precursors (e.g., aminolevulinic acid, porphobilinogen); genetic testing to identify specific mutations.

Treatment:
Glucose infusions or hemin administration to suppress heme biosynthesis, along with supportive care to manage symptoms. Avoidance of triggering factors such as certain medications or fasting.

Medications:
Hemin (synthetic heme, used to downregulate porphyrin production), glucose (for metabolic support).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, with an estimated prevalence of 1 in 25,000 to 1 in 50,000 for acute porphyrias.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, use of triggering medications (e.g., barbiturates, sulfonamides), alcohol consumption, hormonal changes (e.g., during menstruation).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With early diagnosis and management, symptoms are reversible, but severe attacks can lead to long-term complications or death.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic pain, paralysis, kidney failure, liver damage, severe neurological deficits.

Withdrawal syndromes

Specialty: Toxicology

Category: Miscellaneous Toxicological Conditions

Sub-category: Substance Use and Abuse

Symptoms:
anxiety; restlessness; insomnia; nausea; vomiting; sweating; seizures; hallucinations; cravings; muscle pain; tremors

Root Cause:
Withdrawal occurs due to abrupt cessation or reduction in the use of a substance, disrupting the brain's adaptive changes to the drug.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation of history, substance use patterns, and physical/psychological symptoms; sometimes aided by withdrawal severity scales.

Treatment:
Gradual tapering of the substance, medications to manage symptoms, supportive care, and behavioral therapy.

Medications:
Alcohol withdrawal - Benzodiazepines (e.g., diazepam , lorazepam ) to prevent seizures and delirium tremens. Opioid withdrawal - Methadone , buprenorphine , or clonidine to manage symptoms and cravings. Nicotine withdrawal - Nicotine replacement therapy (patches, gum), varenicline , or bupropion .

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Withdrawal syndromes are common among individuals with substance dependence, with prevalence varying based on substance use patterns.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Prolonged or heavy substance use, abrupt cessation, lack of medical supervision during detoxification.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis depends on the substance, duration of use, and treatment adherence; most symptoms resolve with treatment, though cravings and relapse risk may persist.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe complications include seizures, delirium tremens (in alcohol withdrawal), dehydration, cardiac arrhythmias, and suicide risk.

Alcohol-Related Psychosis

Specialty: Mental Health and Psychology

Category: Addiction

Symptoms:
hallucinations; delusions; paranoia; confusion; disorganized thoughts

Root Cause:
Chronic or excessive alcohol use disrupts neurotransmitter balance, leading to psychotic symptoms often exacerbated during withdrawal or intoxication.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation including history of alcohol use, mental health assessment, and ruling out other causes of psychosis. Blood alcohol level and liver function tests may assist diagnosis.

Treatment:
Detoxification, cessation of alcohol use, psychotherapy, and medication for symptom management.

Medications:
Antipsychotic medications (e.g., haloperidol or risperidone ) may be prescribed for acute psychotic episodes. Benzodiazepines (e.g., lorazepam or diazepam ) are often used during withdrawal to prevent seizures. Medications like naltrexone or acamprosate may be used for long-term management of alcohol dependence.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 3-10% of individuals with severe alcohol use disorder.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic alcohol abuse, history of mental illness, family history of addiction, acute withdrawal, or concurrent use of other substances.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Symptoms may resolve with sustained abstinence from alcohol, but recurrent psychosis or relapse is possible without long-term management.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cognitive decline, social and occupational impairment, risk of injury or self-harm, and progression to chronic psychosis if untreated.

Amphetamine-Related Psychiatric Disorders

Specialty: Mental Health and Psychology

Category: Addiction

Symptoms:
paranoia; hallucinations; delusions; anxiety; agitation; insomnia

Root Cause:
Overstimulation of dopamine pathways caused by excessive amphetamine use leading to psychiatric and neurological effects.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Psychiatric evaluation, history of amphetamine use, and exclusion of primary psychiatric conditions.

Treatment:
Discontinuation of amphetamines, behavioral therapies, and medications for symptom control.

Medications:
Antipsychotics (e.g., olanzapine or quetiapine ) to manage psychotic symptoms and benzodiazepines (e.g., lorazepam ) for acute agitation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Around 10-15% of amphetamine users may experience psychotic symptoms.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic amphetamine use, high doses, sleep deprivation, genetic predisposition to mental illness.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Symptoms may resolve with cessation of use; however, prolonged use increases the risk of persistent psychosis.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cognitive impairment, cardiovascular issues, chronic psychosis, and social dysfunction.

Cocaine-Related Psychiatric Disorders

Specialty: Mental Health and Psychology

Category: Addiction

Symptoms:
euphoria; paranoia; hallucinations; agitation; anxiety; impaired judgment

Root Cause:
Cocaine-induced dysregulation of dopamine pathways and oxidative stress leading to neuropsychiatric symptoms.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Evaluation of substance use history, mental status examination, and ruling out primary psychiatric disorders.

Treatment:
Stopping cocaine use, behavioral therapies, and medications for withdrawal and psychiatric symptoms.

Medications:
No FDA-approved medications specifically for cocaine addiction, but antidepressants (e.g., bupropion ) or mood stabilizers (e.g., valproate) may be used symptomatically.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
About 5-10% of cocaine users experience significant psychiatric symptoms.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-dose use, intravenous or crack cocaine, concurrent substance use, and genetic predisposition.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Symptoms often improve with sustained abstinence and supportive care, but long-term use increases the risk of chronic issues.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cardiovascular events, chronic psychosis, depression, and social or occupational decline.

Hallucinogen Use

Specialty: Mental Health and Psychology

Category: Addiction

Symptoms:
distorted sensory perceptions; hallucinations; paranoia; mood swings; disorganized thinking; elevated heart rate; anxiety or panic attacks

Root Cause:
Hallucinogens affect the brain’s serotonin system, leading to altered perceptions, moods, and cognition. Chronic use can cause dependency and psychological disturbances.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation based on patient history, symptom presentation, and standardized diagnostic criteria (DSM-5).

Treatment:
Behavioral therapy, counseling, and supportive care to address psychological and social factors.

Medications:
While there are no FDA-approved medications specifically for hallucinogen use, benzodiazepines (e.g., lorazepam ) may be used short-term for acute agitation or anxiety, and antipsychotics (e.g., haloperidol ) for severe psychosis.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Approximately 1.1 million individuals in the U.S. reported using hallucinogens in the past month (as of recent surveys).

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Youth, peer pressure, history of mental illness, genetic predisposition, recreational drug culture.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; acute episodes may resolve, but long-term use increases the risk of persistent psychological disturbances.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Persistent psychosis, Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD), social or occupational dysfunction.

Phencyclidine (PCP)-Related Psychiatric Disorders

Specialty: Mental Health and Psychology

Category: Addiction

Symptoms:
aggression; delusions; hallucinations; disorganized behavior; catatonia; numbness; ataxia; impaired judgment; anxiety; memory loss

Root Cause:
PCP alters neurotransmitter function, particularly glutamate and dopamine, leading to dissociative and psychotic symptoms.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation of symptoms, toxicology screening (urine/blood tests for PCP metabolites), and assessment of mental status.

Treatment:
Supportive care in acute cases, benzodiazepines for agitation, antipsychotics for severe psychotic symptoms, psychotherapy for long-term recovery, and substance use counseling.

Medications:
Benzodiazepines (e.g., lorazepam , diazepam ) for sedation and agitation; antipsychotics (e.g., haloperidol , olanzapine ) for psychosis. Benzodiazepines are sedatives; antipsychotics are dopamine receptor antagonists.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Usage of PCP has declined but remains an issue among some populations, particularly in urban areas. Exact prevalence varies by region.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
History of substance abuse, peer influence, availability of PCP, and underlying mental health disorders.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Recovery depends on the duration and intensity of use. Acute symptoms may resolve with treatment, but chronic use can result in long-term cognitive and psychiatric issues.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic psychosis, memory impairment, cognitive deficits, and increased risk of injury or death due to impaired judgment.

Schizoaffective Disorder

Specialty: Mental Health and Psychology

Category: Adult

Symptoms:
hallucinations; delusions; depressed mood; manic episodes; disorganized thinking; impaired social and occupational functioning

Root Cause:
Combination of mood disorder (bipolar or depressive) and psychotic disorder (similar to schizophrenia); possibly due to genetic, neurochemical, and environmental factors.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation based on DSM-5 criteria, patient history, and ruling out other medical or psychiatric conditions.

Treatment:
Combination of antipsychotic medications, mood stabilizers, and psychotherapy. Hospitalization may be necessary during acute episodes.

Medications:
Antipsychotics (e.g., risperidone , olanzapine , paliperidone ), mood stabilizers (e.g., lithium , valproate), and antidepressants (if depressive symptoms dominate).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Estimated to affect 0.3% of the general population; more common in females.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, substance abuse, early life trauma, and stress.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies; better than schizophrenia alone but worse than mood disorders alone. Symptoms often managed with consistent treatment.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Suicide risk, social and occupational dysfunction, substance abuse, and long-term disability.

Schizophreniform Disorder

Specialty: Mental Health and Psychology

Category: Adult

Symptoms:
hallucinations; delusions; disorganized speech; catatonic behavior; negative symptoms (e.g., flat affect, social withdrawal)

Root Cause:
Similar to schizophrenia but with shorter duration and potentially different prognosis; may involve genetic, neurochemical, and environmental factors.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
DSM-5 criteria require symptoms lasting more than one month but less than six months, with no other medical or psychiatric explanations.

Treatment:
Antipsychotic medications, psychotherapy, and support to address functional impairments.

Medications:
Second-generation antipsychotics (e.g., risperidone , olanzapine , ziprasidone ) are commonly prescribed.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, affecting approximately 0.2% of the population.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of psychosis, significant life stressors, or substance use.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Approximately one-third recover completely; others may progress to schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Progression to schizophrenia, social dysfunction, and difficulty in daily functioning.

Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome

Specialty: Mental Health and Psychology

Category: Adult

Symptoms:
confusion; memory impairment; ataxia; ophthalmoplegia; nystagmus; hallucinations

Root Cause:
Caused by thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency, often due to chronic alcohol use, malnutrition, or malabsorption.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination, history of alcohol use or malnutrition, and response to thiamine supplementation. MRI may show characteristic brain changes.

Treatment:
Immediate thiamine replacement via intravenous or intramuscular administration, followed by oral supplementation. Alcohol cessation and nutritional support are critical.

Medications:
Thiamine (vitamin B1) is the primary treatment; no specific psychiatric medications are typically required unless comorbid conditions exist.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Estimated to affect 1–2% of the general population; prevalence is higher in those with alcohol dependence.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic alcoholism, malnutrition, gastrointestinal surgeries, and prolonged vomiting.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Early treatment can prevent progression; untreated cases lead to permanent cognitive deficits or death.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Permanent memory deficits (Korsakoff psychosis), confusion, coma, and death if untreated.

Brief Psychotic Disorder

Specialty: Mental Health and Psychology

Category: Psychotic Disorders

Sub-category: Acute Disorders

Symptoms:
hallucinations; delusions; disorganized speech; disorganized behavior

Root Cause:
A sudden onset of psychotic symptoms, often triggered by severe stress, without evidence of underlying chronic psychotic disorders.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Based on DSM-5 criteria, requiring one or more psychotic symptoms lasting between 1 day and 1 month, with a return to baseline functioning.

Treatment:
Psychotherapy for stress management; supportive therapy during and after the episode. Hospitalization may be required for safety.

Medications:
Antipsychotics (e.g., haloperidol , risperidone ) for symptom control; benzodiazepines (e.g., lorazepam ) for agitation or insomnia.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, with an estimated prevalence of 0.1-0.2% in the general population.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Severe psychological stress, lack of social support, history of trauma, genetic predisposition to psychotic disorders.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with timely treatment; most individuals recover completely. Recurrence is uncommon unless there is an underlying condition.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Development of a chronic psychotic disorder (e.g., schizophrenia) in some cases, or significant distress during episodes.

Delirium, Dementia, and Amnesia in Emergency Medicine

Specialty: Mental Health and Psychology

Category: Emergency

Symptoms:
confusion; disorientation; memory impairment; inattention; altered mental status; hallucinations; agitation; withdrawal

Root Cause:
Acute brain dysfunction often caused by underlying medical issues, such as infections, metabolic imbalances, head trauma, intoxication, or withdrawal.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical assessment including patient history, mental status exams (e.g., CAM for delirium), physical exams, imaging studies (CT or MRI), and lab tests to identify underlying causes.

Treatment:
Identify and treat the underlying cause (e.g., infections, dehydration, hypoxia), supportive care, and symptomatic treatment (e.g., antipsychotics for agitation).

Medications:
Medications include antipsychotics (e.g., haloperidol or olanzapine ), benzodiazepines for withdrawal-related causes, and cholinesterase inhibitors for dementia management.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Delirium affects 10-30% of hospitalized patients, particularly in the elderly. Dementia affects 5-8% of individuals over 60 globally.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Advanced age, pre-existing cognitive impairment, substance use, infections, polypharmacy, hospitalization, or major surgery.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies; delirium is often reversible if the cause is treated, but dementia typically progresses chronically. Amnesia prognosis depends on etiology (e.g., head trauma, substance-related causes).

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Falls, prolonged hospitalization, worsening of underlying conditions, or progression to chronic cognitive impairment.

Emergent Treatment of Schizophrenia

Specialty: Mental Health and Psychology

Category: Emergency

Sub-category: Psychotic Disorders

Symptoms:
delusions; hallucinations; disorganized speech; catatonia; agitation; withdrawal; impaired reality testing

Root Cause:
Dysregulation of dopamine and glutamate neurotransmitter systems, often with a genetic predisposition and environmental stressors.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical assessment of psychotic symptoms persisting for six months or longer, ruling out medical or substance-induced causes. Imaging and labs may be used to rule out organic causes.

Treatment:
Acute stabilization in a safe environment, antipsychotic medication, and addressing underlying medical conditions.

Medications:
Second-generation antipsychotics (e.g., risperidone , olanzapine , aripiprazole ) or first-generation antipsychotics (e.g., haloperidol ) are commonly used. Adjunct benzodiazepines may be used for agitation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1% of the population worldwide.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, prenatal exposure to infections or malnutrition, substance abuse (e.g., cannabis use), and urban living.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies; with treatment, symptoms can be managed, but many patients experience chronic relapses and functional impairment.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Homelessness, substance abuse, suicide risk, or comorbid conditions like depression or anxiety.

Ganser Syndrome

Specialty: Mental Health and Psychology

Category: Psychiatric Disorders

Sub-category: Dissociative Disorders

Symptoms:
approximate answers; confusion; amnesia; hallucinations; dissociation

Root Cause:
Rare dissociative disorder often linked to extreme stress, trauma, or underlying psychiatric illness.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation and exclusion of organic causes. It is often identified by characteristic symptoms like nonsensical or approximate answers.

Treatment:
Psychotherapy (e.g., trauma-focused therapy) and supportive care. Treat any underlying psychiatric or medical condition.

Medications:
No specific medications; treatment focuses on managing symptoms with antidepressants or antipsychotics as needed.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Extremely rare, with most cases reported in individuals under extreme stress or in forensic settings.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Severe stress, trauma, personality disorders, or legal pressure.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Symptoms often resolve with appropriate psychological support and stress relief.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Misdiagnosis, prolonged distress, or functional impairment.

Naegleria Infection and Primary Amebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM)

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: CNS Infections

Symptoms:
severe headache; fever; nausea; vomiting; stiff neck; seizures; altered mental status; hallucinations; coma

Root Cause:
Infection caused by the amoeba Naegleria fowleri, which invades the brain through the nasal passages, often following freshwater exposure.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Analysis of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) through lumbar puncture, identification of Naegleria in CSF via microscopy, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), or antigen testing; brain imaging (MRI or CT) for inflammation.

Treatment:
Aggressive antimicrobial therapy including amphotericin B (intravenous and intrathecal), supportive care for cerebral edema, and experimental medications like miltefosine.

Medications:
Amphotericin B (antifungal), miltefosine (antiparasitic), rifampin (antibiotic), fluconazole (antifungal), and azithromycin (antibiotic). These medications aim to target the amoeba directly and reduce associated inflammation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; fewer than 150 cases reported in the United States over several decades. Occurs more frequently in warm climates with freshwater exposure.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Freshwater swimming or diving, particularly in warm lakes or hot springs; use of untreated water for nasal irrigation.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Poor, with a mortality rate exceeding 97%; early diagnosis and treatment are critical for the few known survivors.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Rapidly progressing brain inflammation, brain herniation, coma, and death.