catatonia
Pronunciation: kat-ah-TOE-nee-ah
A neuropsychiatric syndrome characterized by motor immobility, behavioral abnormalities, and often stupor or excessive motor activity.
Full Definition
Catatonia is a complex neuropsychiatric syndrome characterized by a constellation of motor, behavioral, and autonomic symptoms that can occur in various psychiatric and medical conditions. The classic presentation includes motor immobility or stupor, but catatonia can also manifest as excessive and apparently purposeless motor activity. Key features include catalepsy (waxy flexibility), negativism, mutism, posturing, stereotypy, and echolalia or echopraxia. Catatonia can be associated with mood disorders, schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorders, and various medical conditions including autoimmune encephalitis and metabolic disorders. The condition requires prompt recognition and treatment, as it can progress to malignant catatonia, a potentially life-threatening condition. Treatment typically involves benzodiazepines or electroconvulsive therapy. The Bush-Francis Catatonia Rating Scale is commonly used for assessment and monitoring.
Usage
Usage note: Specify subtype (stuporous vs. excited) and use standardized rating scales when possible.
In Context
- "The patient exhibited catatonia with waxy flexibility and maintained unusual postures for hours." — Emergency psychiatric evaluation
- "Lorazepam challenge test confirmed the diagnosis of catatonia and guided treatment selection." — Treatment decision note