Steroid-induced psychosis related to pituitary adenoma status post trans-sphenoid excision and a history of psychiatric illness: A case report

BACKGROUND

Steroid-induced psychosis is a common adverse effect of steroid exposure. Reported cases were mostly related to rheumatologic disease. Despite its high incidence, there is only one case reported related to perioperative steroid replacement for pituitary adenoma surgery. This manuscript presents the second case of such and compared the two with the latest literature review of steroid-induced psychosis.

CASE SUMMARY

This is a case of an adult male with a chief complaint of auditory hallucinations and was referred by Neurosurgery to Psychiatry Out-patient department. He was diagnosed with pituitary adenoma who underwent trans-sphenoid excision of the mass from which steroid exposure led to steroid-induced psychosis. Also, patient had a history of psychiatric illness of severe depressive episode. At the out-patient department, patient was started on antipsychotic, Risperidone, which led to eventual improvement of his symptoms.

CONCLUSION

The two cases of pituitary adenoma surgery with steroid-induced psychosis had almost similar clinical profile with the latest literature review of steroid-induced psychosis. However, the present case highlights the association of psychiatric illness in predisposing an individual in developing it. Also, this manuscript emphasizes that early recognition of steroid-induced psychosis leads to better prognosis. Multispecialty treatment is vital in the holistic management of the patient with timely referral and close coordination.