AEMCA Practice Exam

Which symptom is NOT associated with serotonin syndrome?

1. Hallucinations

2. Tachycardia

3. Fatigue

4. Dilated pupils

The correct answer is: Fatigue

Serotonin syndrome is a potentially life-threatening condition resulting from excessive serotonergic activity in the central nervous system. It is characterized by a range of symptoms that can manifest quickly after the introduction of certain drugs or combinations of medications that increase serotonin levels. The symptoms commonly associated with serotonin syndrome include agitation, hallucinations, tachycardia (rapid heart rate), dilated pupils, excessive sweating, and muscle rigidity. Hallucinations occur due to altered states of consciousness as a result of heightened serotonergic activity. Tachycardia is a direct consequence of autonomic dysregulation caused by increased serotonin levels. Similarly, dilated pupils (mydriasis) reflect the sympathetic activation often seen in this syndrome. On the other hand, fatigue is not a typical symptom of serotonin syndrome. While fatigue can occur in various medical conditions, it does not directly relate to the overstimulation of serotonin pathways in the central nervous system, which primarily results in more acute and symptomatic manifestations such as increased heart rate and mental agitation rather than a general state of exhaustion. Thus, fatigue is not associated with this syndrome, making it the correct answer in the context of this question.