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 most likely cause of Suzanne's rampant caries?
A. Poor oral hygiene
B. Drug-induced xerostomia
C. High carbohydrate intake
D. Nonfluorinated water

Answer 1

The most likely cause of Suzanne's rampant caries is drug-induced xerostomia option (B).

Step-by-step explanation:

The most likely cause of Suzanne's rampant caries is B. Drug-induced xerostomia.

Drug-induced xerostomia refers to a condition where a person experiences a decreased flow of saliva as a side effect of certain medications. This can lead to a dry mouth, which creates an ideal environment for the growth of bacteria and can result in rampant tooth decay.

In Suzanne's case, her medication chlorpromazine (Thorazine) is an antipsychotic that can cause xerostomia as a side effect. Her poor oral hygiene and difficulty holding down a job may contribute to her inability to maintain proper dental care, further increasing her risk of developing rampant caries.