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This is a page about catatonic state. For the band, see Catatonia (band). Catatonia is a psychiatric syndrome that is listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. It is indicative of other conditions such as schizophrenia (catatonic type), bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and other mental disorders, as well as drug abuse and/or overdose. It bears similarity to conditions such as encephalitis lethargica and neuroleptic malignant syndrome. There are a variety of treatments available, and depending on the case, one or more drugs may be used, including antipsychotics and benzodiazepines. Catatonia is not a mental disorder in itself; it is best thought of as a syndrome accompanying other mental disorders. There is a subtype of schizophrenia called "catatonic schizophrenia" in which the patient experiences an extreme loss of motor ability or constant hyperactive motor activity. Catatonic patients will sometimes hold rigid poses for hours and will ignore any external stimuli.
Types Stupor is a motionless, apathetic state in which one is oblivious or does not react to external stimuli. Motor activity is nearly non-existent. Individuals in this state make little or no eye contact with others and may be mute and rigid. Catatonic excitement is state of constant agitation and excitation. Individuals in this state are extremely hyperactive although the activity seems to lack purpose. Treatment Initial treatment is aimed at providing relief from the catatonic state. Benzodiazepines are the first line of treatment and high doses are often required. A test dose of 1-2 mg intramuscular lorazepam will often result in marked improvement within half an hour. Ultimately the underlying cause needs to be treated. Electroconvulsive therapy is an effective treatment for catatonia as well as for most of the underlying causes (e.g. psychosis, mania, depression). Antipsychotics should be used with care as they can worsen catatonia and are the cause of neuroleptic malignant syndrome a dangerous condition that can mimic catatonia and requires the immediate discontinuation of the antipsycotic. Catatonia in popular culture | ||||||||
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