What Is This Disorder?

This disorder occurs when a physical medical condition directly causes psychotic symptoms such as hallucinations or delusions. The psychosis is not caused by substances but by an underlying illness affecting the brain.

Medical Conditions That Can Cause Psychosis

• Neurological disorders (epilepsy, brain tumors, stroke)
• Endocrine disorders (thyroid dysfunction)
• Metabolic disorders
• Autoimmune diseases
• Infections affecting the brain
• Nutritional deficiencies (B12 deficiency)

Symptoms

Psychotic Symptoms

• Hallucinations (visual or auditory)
• Delusions
• Disorganized behavior

Accompanying Medical Symptoms

• Seizures
• Weakness or dizziness
• Headaches
• Cognitive impairment

Diagnosis

• Evidence from medical tests linking psychosis to the medical condition
• No involvement of substances
• Psychosis is not better explained by a primary psychiatric disorder

Treatment

1. Treating the Underlying Medical Condition

Primary focus is on treating the illness causing psychosis.

2. Medications

• Antipsychotics to control hallucinations or delusions
• Medication for neurological or metabolic conditions

3. Supportive Therapy

• Cognitive and behavioral interventions
• Family education
• Rehabilitation support