Challenges and Approaches for Managing Psychosis in Advanced Parkinson's Disease: A Case Report

Abstract: Parkinson's Disease (PD) psychosis poses major treatment challenges due to the delicate balance required between managing motor deficits and psychotic symptoms. Treating PD associated psychosis is complicated due to the etiology of the disease. While psychosis can often accompany the natural progression of PD, psychosis is also a side effect of the first line treatments for PD motor symptoms. This case report presents a 69-year-old male with a 7-year history of stage 5 PD who voluntarily admitted himself to an acute psychiatric inpatient hospital for delusions and paranoia. While admitted, the patient required extended hospitalization which involved careful titration of antipsychotic doses to improve symptoms prior to discharge. This case highlights both the difficulties treating PD psychosis as well as the effectiveness of current medications. Antipsychotic medications, while providing some benefit, may fail to fully resolve the patient's psychosis, indicating need for further treatment considerations. Current treatment limitations demonstrate the need for further studies on optimal management strategies to improve patient outcomes. In conclusion, this case highlights the poor prognosis and high readmission risk for advanced PD patients with recurrent psychosis. Furthermore, challenges in PD psychosis management underscore the need for patient-centered interdisciplinary approaches focusing on both motor, psychiatric, and educational aspects.Short Description: This case report demonstrates the complexities of managing psychosis in Parkinson's patients, due to the delicate balance between treating psychosis-related symptoms and motor function. Current treatment limitations emphasize the importance of further research to develop optimal management strategies that improve outcomes for this debilitating complication. Furthermore, this case highlights the importance of incorporating coordinated, interdisciplinary care utilizing tailored medication regimens and increasing patient compliance.Name of Sponsoring Organization(s): N/A