*Correspondence: valkiria2002@hotmail.com.
Abstract
Case Presentation: This is a report of a 6-and-a-half-year-old child, with a diagnosis of Autistic Spectrum
Disorder (ASD) support level 2 and ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)
as comorbidity. Pharmacological therapy with risperidone was initiated, with a gradual
increase in dose up to 1.25 mL/day, divided into 2 doses, with significant improvement
in aggressiveness, agitation, and impulsiveness, as well as evident gains in verbal
communication. About 90 days after starting the drug, the mother reported increased
appetite, abundant hyaline nasal discharge, and the presence of thick, yellowish eye
discharge and red-eye syndrome. In ophthalmologic evaluation, the patient was refractory
to the use of antiallergic medication, antibiotics, and lubricants. Due to the persistence
of signs and symptoms, a gradual reduction of risperidone was chosen; however, the
resolution of ocular complaints was only after the total suspension of the drug. Aripiprazole
was subsequently started.
Discussion: Risperidone is an atypical antipsychotic that has a high affinity for serotonin and
dopamine receptors. Among the many situations in which this drug can be administered,
it includes the treatment of irritability and aggressiveness associated with ASD.
Although safe in the pediatric age group, the drug is not free of side effects. In
the case described, the rare manifestation observed was aseptic conjunctivitis, and
discontinuation was chosen due to refractory ocular hypersecretion.
Final Comments: It is necessary that individuals undergoing pharmacological therapy with antipsychotics
have continuous and longitudinal monitoring. Although the drug chosen is safe for
use in pediatric patients, its use is not free of negative and unusual side effects,
such as aseptic conjunctivitis. Knowing the indications and complications related
to risperidone is important for the safety and clinical management of cases.
