Intestinal dilatation associated with phenothiazine therapy: a case report and literature review

Abstract

The authors describe a fatal episode of intestinal dilatation associated with chlorpromazine therapy. A total of 26 similar cases associated with phenothiazine or tricyclic antidepressant therapy, including 9 fatalities, has been reported in the literature. The authors cite experimental evidence supporting this association. They emphasize the difficulty of recognizing this syndrome in the psychotic patient; careful evaluation is indicated in the constipated patient who exhibits vomiting, abdominal pain, distension, or tenderness.