Abstract
RATIONALE: The 22q11.2 deletion syndrome is a prevalent genetic condition associated with an increased risk of psychotic disorders. This case report describes an adolescent girl diagnosed with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome at the age of 4 years. She had a history of developmental delays, hearing impairments, and orthopedic complications requiring multiple surgeries. PATIENT CONCERNS: At 15 years of age, she had a 2-month history of abnormal beliefs, perceptual disturbances, behavioral changes, and irritability. DIAGNOSES: She was diagnosed with attenuated psychosis syndrome. INTERVENTIONS: She was treated with aripiprazole as a therapeutic intervention coupled with cognitive behavioral therapy, leading to a significant improvement in her symptoms; however, she developed akathisia and was therefore switched to risperidone, which was better tolerated in the long run. OUTCOMES: This case emphasizes the need for early intervention and personalized, tailored treatment options that can address the unique needs and vulnerabilities of these patients with complex genetic conditions and associated psychiatric manifestations. LESSONS: This case report represents the therapeutic success achieved with aripiprazole, demonstrating the potential effectiveness of this medication and its potential to improve patient outcomes when it is coupled with cognitive behavioral therapy, highlights the vulnerability of the patient group to antipsychotic-related side effects, and underscores the need for further development of optimized treatment strategies.