A Case of Negative-Pressure Pulmonary Edema After Electroconvulsive Therapy

Abstract

Abstract

Pulmonary edema after electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a rarely reported condition that can result in serious morbidity and even death if not promptly recognized and treated. We report the case of 21-year-old man with FG syndrome and schizophrenia who developed negative-pressure pulmonary edema after his 28th ECT. The patient developed acute hypoxemia requiring positive-pressure ventilation and was observed overnight in the intensive care unit. He recovered fully and received 43 subsequent ECT treatments without complication. This case illustrates the importance of taking steps to prevent airway obstruction as well as recognizing this rare but serious complication.