Carotid Artery Obstruction Following LSD Capsule Ingestion

A 14-year-old boy with no prior epilepsy, neurological disease, or head trauma experienced a generalized seizure with eye rolling, clonic and tonic movements, and loss of consciousness after ingesting four LSD capsules. For a month before the seizure, his mother had noted episodes of elation and drowsiness. Physical examination showed mild lethargy, restlessness, blood pressure 102/70 mm Hg, pulse 88 beats per minute, respiratory rate 16 per minute, and temperature 100.6°F. This case suggests that LSD ingestion can trigger seizures and focal neurologic signs even in individuals without previous seizure disorders.

Study at a glance

Abstract

A wide variety of acute and chronic psychiatric symptoms have been seen in patients taking lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD).1We report a case of particular interest because the patient developed focal neurologic signs. Patient Summary A 14-year-old boy with no previous history of epilepsy, cardiovascular or neurological disease, or head trauma was hospitalized because of a short generalized seizure characterized by eye rolling, clonic and tonic movements, and loss of consciousness. For one month prior to admission, his mother had noted episodes of elation and drowsiness. Family history was unremarkable. A history obtained from four of his companions revealed that the patient had taken four LSD capsules shortly before the seizure. No other capsules were found. Physical examination revealed a well-developed boy, mildly lethargic and restless. The blood pressure was 102/70 mm Hg; pulse rate, 88 beats per minute and regular; respiratory rate, 16 per minute; and temperature 100.6