Relapsing-remitting psychosis with malignant catatonia: a multidisciplinary challenge

Neurocase. 2022 Feb;28(1):126-130. doi: 10.1080/13554794.2022.2032185. Epub 2022 Feb 17.

Abstract

Malignant catatonia is a life-threatening syndrome that could be observed in various psychiatric and neurological conditions. We describe the challenging case of a young woman with relapsing-remitting malignant catatonia, which finally resolve after electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Details regarding her psychiatric symptoms, dynamics, and EEG features during each acute and post-acute phases of the disease are described and long-term follow-ups are provided. We emphasize the importance of a multidisciplinary cross talk between neurologists and psychiatrists to ensure adequate management of this dangerous condition. Knowledge and gaps in the field of autoimmune psychosis are also discussed.

Keywords: Autoimmune encephalitis; acute psychosys; catatonia; electroconvulsive therapy; electroencephalography.

MeSH terms

  • Catatonia* / diagnosis
  • Catatonia* / etiology
  • Catatonia* / therapy
  • Electroconvulsive Therapy*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Psychotic Disorders* / complications
  • Psychotic Disorders* / therapy