Which description best characterizes tardive dyskinesia?

Which description best characterizes tardive dyskinesia?

• A. It is a fever caused by infection
• B. It is a seizure disorder
• C. It is a skin rash
• D. Involuntary, repetitive movements of the face, tongue, and extremities that may occur with long-term dopamine antagonist therapy

Answer: (D)

Tardive dyskinesia is a late-onset movement disorder caused by long-term use of dopamine receptor–blocking antipsychotics. It presents with involuntary, repetitive movements of the face, tongue, and extremities—grimacing, lip smacking, tongue protrusion, and finger or toe wiggling. This description matches the description of movements that occur with prolonged dopamine antagonist therapy. The other options describe conditions that aren’t linked to this drug-induced motor syndrome (fever from infection, seizures, or a skin rash). Early recognition is important because symptoms can persist or worsen if the offending medication isn’t adjusted; management often involves modifying the antipsychotic regimen and, in some cases, using medications that specifically address tardive dyskinesia.

Tardive dyskinesia is a late-onset movement disorder caused by long-term use of dopamine receptor–blocking antipsychotics. It presents with involuntary, repetitive movements of the face, tongue, and extremities—grimacing, lip smacking, tongue protrusion, and finger or toe wiggling. This description matches the description of movements that occur with prolonged dopamine antagonist therapy. The other options describe conditions that aren’t linked to this drug-induced motor syndrome (fever from infection, seizures, or a skin rash). Early recognition is important because symptoms can persist or worsen if the offending medication isn’t adjusted; management often involves modifying the antipsychotic regimen and, in some cases, using medications that specifically address tardive dyskinesia.