catatonia
Pronunciation: kat-uh-TOH-nee-uh
A psychomotor syndrome characterized by motor immobility, excessive motor activity, or bizarre posturing and movements.
Full Definition
Catatonia is a complex neuropsychiatric syndrome characterized by various combinations of motor, behavioral, and autonomic abnormalities. The condition can present as stuporous catatonia (with immobility, mutism, and posturing), excited catatonia (with purposeless agitation and hyperactivity), or malignant catatonia (with fever and autonomic instability). While historically associated with schizophrenia, catatonia is now recognized as occurring across various psychiatric and medical conditions, including mood disorders, autism spectrum disorders, and general medical conditions. The Lorazepam challenge test and ECT represent first-line treatments for this potentially life-threatening condition.
Usage
Usage note: Can be medical emergency; ensure rapid recognition and intervention protocols are documented.
In Context
- "The patient's catatonia responded dramatically to high-dose lorazepam treatment." — Inpatient psychiatry consultation
- "ECT was considered for treatment-resistant catatonia with life-threatening complications." — Treatment planning conference