European Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences

PSYCHIATRIC SYMPTOMATOLOGY WITH UNDERLYING ORGANIC ETIOLOGY

*Dr. Fiona Mahapatro and Dr. Simran Bhupal

ABSTRACT

Introduction: The etiology in patients having change in behaviour has often been found to be compounded by organic factors as well, which often tend to be overlooked, so there is a need to adopt a multifaceted approach towards tackling the diagnosis and management of psychiatric symptomatology.[3,4] Emphasis needs to be laid on screening for organic causes even in patients presenting with features resembling psychiatric illnesses, as there might be cues pointing towards underlying organicity which are often overlooked in such cases. Aim: To assess for underlying organic etiology, if any, in patients presenting to Psychiatry department with acute onset of altered behaviour; by undertaking radiological and haematological diagnostic investigations in select patients with clinical cues pointing towards an organic cause responsible for their symptoms. Methodology: Patients were clinically evaluated and appropriate investigations were carried out. Results: Twenty-two patients were found to have organic causes which accounted for or contributed to their symptoms. Conclusion: Thorough screening in patients presenting with acute changes in behaviour is essential for effective treatment and timely intervention.

Keywords: Acute onset, altered behaviour, diagnostic investigations, organic etiology.