Absolute CONTRAINDICATION to lithium therapy is: March 2004
**Core Concept**
Lithium is a medication used to treat bipolar disorder, but it has several contraindications due to its narrow therapeutic index. The most critical contraindication is related to its potential to cause severe side effects, particularly in patients with pre-existing medical conditions.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Lithium can cause significant kidney damage and should be avoided in patients with pre-existing renal impairment. This is because lithium is primarily excreted by the kidneys, and impaired renal function can lead to lithium toxicity. Patients with kidney disease are at a higher risk of developing lithium-induced nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, which can further worsen kidney function.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because while cardiac conduction abnormalities can be a concern with lithium therapy, they are not an absolute contraindication.
**Option B:** Hypothyroidism is a common side effect of lithium therapy, but it is not an absolute contraindication.
**Option C:** While caution is advised in patients with cardiovascular disease, lithium therapy is not an absolute contraindication in these patients.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It's essential to regularly monitor kidney function and serum lithium levels in patients receiving lithium therapy to prevent toxicity.
**Correct Answer:** B. Hypothyroidism.