Catatonia

Definition

Catatonia is a neuropsychiatric syndrome characterized by abnormal motor behavior and a lack of responsiveness to external stimuli. It can occur in various psychiatric and medical conditions, including schizophrenia and mood disorders.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Catatonia can present with symptoms such as stupor, mutism, rigidity, or repetitive movements.
2. Benzodiazepines, particularly lorazepam, are commonly used in the acute management of catatonia.
3. Antipsychotic drugs may sometimes worsen catatonic symptoms, necessitating careful evaluation before use.
4. Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is considered an effective treatment for severe or refractory catatonia.
5. The Bush-Francis Catatonia Rating Scale (BFCRS) is often used to assess the severity of catatonic symptoms.

Review Questions

• What are some common symptoms of catatonia?
• Which class of drugs is typically first-line treatment for acute catatonia?
• Why must antipsychotic medications be used cautiously in patients with catatonia?

Related terms

Schizophrenia:

A chronic mental disorder characterized by delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech, and impaired cognitive function.

Lorazepam:

A benzodiazepine medication commonly used to treat anxiety disorders and acute episodes of catatonia.

Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT): A medical treatment involving electrically induced seizures used primarily for severe depression and other mental health conditions like catatonia.