Introduction: Fahr's syndrome is a rare anatomoclinical entity characterized by bilateral, symmetrical
intracerebral calcifications, most commonly in the basal ganglia, and often associated with disturbances
in phosphocalcic metabolism. These calcifications may be accompanied by a wide spectrum of
neuropsychiatric manifestations.
Methodology and Objective: We present the case of a patient in whom psychiatric symptoms revealed
underlying Fahr's syndrome. A review of the literature was also conducted to compare our findings with
previously reported cases.
Results and Discussion: We describe a 24-year-old patient with a history of hypothyroidism since the
age of 15 and chronic hypocalcemia. He was admitted to a psychiatric facility with a clinical picture
characterized by a delusional syndrome, hallucinatory features, and suicidal ideation that had been
evolving over one month prior to admission. Cognitive disturbances were also identified during clinical
interviews.
Neuropsychiatric disorders are frequently observed in Fahr’s syndrome and may present as behavioral
disturbances, confusional states, or delusional syndromes. Neurological manifestations are less
common but can occur, including cognitive decline and, in some cases, intellectual disability. Cognitive
impairment may range from mild deficits in memory and attention to full-blown dementia. Psychotic
symptoms described in Fahr’s disease include auditory and visual hallucinations, complex perceptual
distortions, delusional thinking, and fugue states.
Conclusion: Although Fahr's syndrome remains a rare clinical entity, this case highlights the importance
of neuroimaging in the diagnostic evaluation of patients presenting with psychiatric symptoms, as well
as the role of phosphocalcium testing in the assessment of psychotic disorders. Recognition of these
associations can facilitate appropriate diagnosis and management. Further studies are warranted to
evaluate pharmacological strategies and to determine the most effective therapeutic approaches for
managing the psychiatric manifestations of Fahr’s syndrome.
