LMSW Practice Test

Which of the following statements about Tardive Dyskinesia is *untrue*?

1. It can always be reversed by discontinuing psychotropic medication

2. It causes involuntary facial, lip and tongue movements

3. It is a late-appearing condition causing gross motor problems involving jerky limb movements and finger motions

4. It is caused by prolonged use of antipsychotic medication

The correct answer is: It can always be reversed by discontinuing psychotropic medication

The assertion that Tardive Dyskinesia can always be reversed by discontinuing psychotropic medication is indeed untrue. While discontinuing or reducing the dose of the offending medication can sometimes lead to improvement, this is not guaranteed for everyone, and there are cases where symptoms persist indefinitely even after cessation of the medication. The unpredictability of recovery highlights the complexity of this condition; some patients may experience a permanent condition despite making changes to their treatment. The other statements correctly outline aspects of Tardive Dyskinesia. It involves involuntary movements, predominantly affecting the face, lips, and tongue. This description reflects the characteristic symptoms of the disorder, which can include grimacing and lip-smacking. Additionally, the condition can manifest in more generalized movement patterns, including jerky motions of limbs, which aligns with the understanding of the motor dysfunction associated with Tardive Dyskinesia. Finally, the role of prolonged use of antipsychotic medication in the development of Tardive Dyskinesia is well-documented, as these medications can disrupt dopamine pathways, leading to the symptoms experienced by patients.