Question

Suzanne J. a 42 year old woman, is being treated for schizophrenia and has been prescribed an antipsychotic chlorpromazine (Thorazine). Her blood pressure is 140/90 mm Hg, and her pulse rate is 120 bpm. She has difficulty holding down a job and is currently living in a women's shelter. The shelter has a van that brings clients to your public health clinic for dental care. Suzanne has a history of noncompliance with her medication and has been brought to the clinic because she has been complaining of pain in her jaw. She has rampant cervical caries, and her oral hygiene is poor. When you attempt to take radiographs, she becomes upset and says that she does not want "that ray gun" pointed at her. Her caseworker is able to convince her to cooperate, but she is fearful, and her jaws keep opening and closing spasmodically throughout the procedure. When the dentist comes into the room, she becomes agitated, jumps up, and tries to leave the treatment room but loses consciousness and falls.

Which is the cause of the jaw spasms?
A. Parkinsonism
B. Bruxism
C. Tardive dyskinesia
D. Anticholinergic action

Answer 1

The jaw spasms experienced by Suzanne are likely caused by Tardive dyskinesia option (C), a side effect associated with prolonged use of antipsychotic medications such as chlorpromazine.

Step-by-step explanation:

The cause of jaw spasms in this scenario is most likely Tardive dyskinesia option (C), a condition often associated with long-term use of antipsychotic medications like chlorpromazine. Tardive dyskinesia is characterized by involuntary, repetitive movements, which can include grimacing, tongue protrusion, and spasms of the jaw. These symptoms occur due to the dopamine-blocking effects of antipsychotic drugs in the basal ganglia, a group of nuclei in the brain associated with movement control.