Benzodiazepine treatment of catatonia

Written by Chin-Chuen Lin & Tiao-Lai Huang

The mechanisms of catatonia may involve the GABA system, dopamine system, glutamate/N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor system and brain-derived neurotrophic factor. In this article we will share our experiences in treating catatonia with benzodiazepines in Taiwan. We will look at catatonia and its association with anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor encephalitis, and lastly, reports on predicting outcome of patients with catatonia will also be discussed. Kahlbaum described catatonia in 1874 as a unique clinical phenomenon characterized by concurrent motor, emotional, vegetative and behavioral signs. Once free of catatonia, patients often report intense and uncontrollable anxieties. Over the past century, more than 40 motor signs of catatonia...

To view this content, please register now for access

It's completely free