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Ince HY, Neville K, Geller J, Palffy A, Beser C, Ziobro J, Ghaziuddin N. Catatonia and Maintenance Electroconvulsive Therapy in a 15-Year-Old Patient With MED13L Haploinsufficiency Syndrome in the Context of Epilepsy Diathesis. J ECT 2024:00124509-990000000-00176. [PMID: 38968441 DOI: 10.1097/yct.0000000000001049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/07/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT This is the first report of pediatric catatonia syndrome in MED13L haploinsufficiency syndrome. This report describes unique challenges in diagnosis and management of catatonia in rare genetic conditions. The case also illustrates the use of electroconvulsive therapy in patients with epilepsy, epileptic encephalopathy, or other epileptic diathesis and the clinical conundrum in determining the course of maintenance electroconvulsive therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Yavuz Ince
- From the Department of Psychiatry, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Kerri Neville
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Jamarie Geller
- From the Department of Psychiatry, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Alexander Palffy
- From the Department of Psychiatry, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Can Beser
- From the Department of Psychiatry, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Julie Ziobro
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Neera Ghaziuddin
- From the Department of Psychiatry, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
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Luccarelli J, Clauss JA, York T, Baldwin I, Vandekar S, McGonigle T, Fricchione G, Fuchs C, Smith JR. Exploring the Trajectory of Catatonia in Neurodiverse and Neurotypical Pediatric Hospitalizations: A Multicenter Longitudinal Analysis. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2024:2024.06.06.24308554. [PMID: 38883751 PMCID: PMC11178013 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.06.24308554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
Objective Catatonia is a neuropsychiatric disorder that occurs in pediatric patients with a range of associated medical, psychiatric, and neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). This study describes hospital care of pediatric catatonia patients and compares treatments for neurotypical patients and those with NDDs. Methods Retrospective cohort study from 1/1/2018 to 6/1/2023 of two academic medical centers of patients aged 18 and younger with catatonia. Patients were retrospectively assessed using the clinical global impressions-improvement (CGI-I) by two independent reviewers. Results One hundred sixty-five patients were hospitalized for catatonia, of whom 50.3% had an NDD. Median age was 15. One hundred sixty-four patients were treated with a benzodiazepine, with a median maximum 24-hour dose of 6 mg lorazepam-equivalents, which did not differ for patients with and without NDDs. Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) was utilized in 14.5% of patients. Median length of medical hospitalization was 5 days and hospitalizations were longer in neurotypical patients than in patients with NDDs. In an ordinal regression model, the probability of observing at least "much improvement" (CGI < 3) was 88.3% (95% CI: 82.4% to 92.3%), with NDD diagnosis associated with a lower odds of clinical response. Conclusions The probability of patients achieving a CGI-I score indicating at least "much improvement" was 88.3%. Administered benzodiazepine dose and ECT treatment were similar for all patients, but neurotypical patients had longer hospitalizations than those with NDDs and had a higher odds of a more favorable clinical response. Research under controlled conditions is needed to optimize and endure equitable catatonia treatment in youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Luccarelli
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jacqueline A. Clauss
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Tasia York
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Isaac Baldwin
- Division of General Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences; Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Simon Vandekar
- Department of Biostatistics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Trey McGonigle
- Department of Biostatistics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Gregory Fricchione
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Catherine Fuchs
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Joshua R. Smith
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37203
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Smith JR, Hopkins CE, Xiong J, Luccarelli J, Shultz E, Vandekar S. Use of ECT in Autism Spectrum Disorder and/or Intellectual Disability: A Single Site Retrospective Analysis. J Autism Dev Disord 2024; 54:963-982. [PMID: 36528758 PMCID: PMC10276173 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-022-05868-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and intellectual disability (ID) are heterogenous and prevalent conditions which may occur in isolation or as a co-morbidity. Psychiatric co-morbidity is common with limited treatment options. Preliminary research into electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) for these conditions has been encouraging. Thus, further research in this patient population is warranted. We conducted a 10-year retrospective review of the electronic medical record and identified intellectually capable individuals with ASD (IC-ASD), and those with ASD+ID or ID who received at least three ECT treatments. 32 patients were identified of which 30 (94%) experienced positive clinical response, defined as a clinical global impression-improvement (CGI-I) score of 3 or less. The average retrospective CGI-I score across all groups was 1.97, and results of a t-test performed on CGI-I scores indicated improvement across all groups [t = - 16.54, df = 31, p < 0.001, 95% CI = (1.72, 2.22)]. No significant adverse events were identified based on clinical documentation. Our findings further support previous ECT research in this patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua R Smith
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center at Village of Vanderbilt, 1500 21st Avenue South, Suite 2200, Nashville, TN, 37212, USA.
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Vanderbilt University, 110 Magnolia Circle, Nashville, TN, 37203, USA.
| | - Corey E Hopkins
- Division of General Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1601 23rd Ave South, Nashville, TN, 37212, USA
| | - Jiangmei Xiong
- Department of Biostatistics, Vanderbilt University, 2424 West End Avenue, Suite 1100, Nashville, TN, 37203, USA
| | - James Luccarelli
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck Street, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Elizabeth Shultz
- Division of General Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1601 23rd Ave South, Nashville, TN, 37212, USA
| | - Simon Vandekar
- Department of Biostatistics, Vanderbilt University, 2424 West End Avenue, Suite 1100, Nashville, TN, 37203, USA
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Hirjak D, Fricchione G, Wolf RC, Northoff G. Lorazepam in catatonia - Past, present and future of a clinical success story. Schizophr Res 2024; 263:27-34. [PMID: 36805317 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2023.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/20/2023]
Abstract
The effect of lorazepam in the treatment of catatonia is outstanding and almost immediate. Clinicians are familiar with its effects: mute patients can speak again, akinetic patients can move again and patients with negativism can eat and drink again within usually a short duration of about 10 min to 1-2 h. Fear is often gone after lorazepam administration. While not always effective, the introduction of lorazepam into clinical practice represented a breakthrough and was often life-saving for many patients suffering from catatonia. It is rare to observe such rapid therapeutic effects in other domains of psychiatry. In this narrative review we will briefly look at the past, present and future of lorazepam in the treatment of catatonia. It is gratifying to reflect on the fact that clinicians using the age-old medical practice of observation and empirical treatment succeeded in advancing the management of catatonia 40 years ago. The present evidence shows that the clinical effect of lorazepam in catatonia treatment is excellent and more or less immediate although it remains to be explicitly tested against other substances such as diazepam, zolpidem, clozapine, quetiapine, amantadine, memantine, valproate and dantrolene in randomized clinical trials. In addition, future studies need to answer the question how long lorazepam should be given to patients with catatonia, months or even years? This narrative review promotes the rapid use of lorazepam in the treatment of acute catatonic patients and stipulates further scientific examination of its often impressive clinical effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dusan Hirjak
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.
| | - Gregory Fricchione
- Benson-Henry Institute for Mind Body Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Robert Christian Wolf
- Center for Psychosocial Medicine, Department of General Psychiatry, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Georg Northoff
- Mind, Brain Imaging and Neuroethics Research Unit, The Royal's Institute of Mental Health Research, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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De Stefano L, Palffy A, Ghaziuddin N. Catatonia in Preadolescent Children. J ECT 2023:00124509-990000000-00131. [PMID: 38194591 DOI: 10.1097/yct.0000000000000986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the study is to describe prepubescent catatonia in very young children, which is poorly documented in the current literature and, as a result, overlooked in medical settings. METHODS We examined a convenience sample of 10 patients at an academic center who were younger than 12 years and met criteria for catatonia. After institutional review board approval, we extracted from the electronic medical records demographic and diagnostic information, comorbidity, developmental history, and laboratory testing. Bush Francis Catatonia Rating Scales at initial presentation and other symptomatology were gathered in addition to treatment received. Fifty percent of patients in this group were seen and diagnosed with catatonia at their presentation in an outpatient clinic, whereas the remaining 50% were diagnosed upon hospitalization, by the psychiatry consultation liaison team. RESULTS All patients but one was diagnosed with a comorbid condition before the diagnosis of catatonia, including 70% with a previous diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder. Three patients had concurrent anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor encephalitis, and one initially presented with seizures. All patients were treated for catatonia with lorazepam, and two patients additionally received electroconvulsive therapy. Regardless of the presence of early regression invariably associated with an autism spectrum diagnosis, secondary symptoms of regression were noted in each case at the time of diagnosing catatonia. CONCLUSIONS Similar to previous observations in adolescents, prepubescent catatonia seems strongly associated with neurodevelopmental disorders, secondary regression, variability in presentation, and comorbidity with other neurological conditions. Delayed recognition of catatonia can hinder rapid and effective treatment in young children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara De Stefano
- From the Psychiatry Department, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor MI
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Reinfeld S, Gill P. Diagnostic overshadowing clouding the efficient recognition of pediatric catatonia: a case series. CNS Spectr 2023; 28:587-591. [PMID: 36440510 DOI: 10.1017/s1092852922001158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Catatonia is a neuropsychiatric condition that causes disruption of movement, emotion, and behaviors. Children and adults with underlying psychiatric conditions are particularly susceptible to developing catatonia, which may result in medical and psychiatric complications. Although catatonia research has been growing at a rapid rate in the last 20 years, it continues to be met with inefficiencies in its diagnosis and incertitude in its treatment. In the pediatric population, catatonia is plagued by diagnostic overshadowing, where the catatonia is erroneously attributed to existing pathologies that lead to a prolonged disease state. This paper describes three pediatric patients with catatonia that fell victim to diagnostic overshadowing. More rigorous training and education are imperative to improve the efficient recognition and treatment of children with catatonia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Reinfeld
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Stony Brook University Hospital, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Poonamdeep Gill
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Stony Brook University Hospital, Stony Brook, NY, USA
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Cui M, Ni Q, Wang Q. Review of intervention methods for language and communication disorders in children with autism spectrum disorders. PeerJ 2023; 11:e15735. [PMID: 37576502 PMCID: PMC10422951 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.15735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, the number of patients-particularly children-with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has been continually increasing. ASD affects a child's language communication and social interaction to a certain extent and has an impact on behavior, intelligence level, and other aspects of the child. Data indicates that 40% to 70% of children with ASD experience language developmental delays, which are mainly manifested as lack of language or language developmental delay, self-talk, use of stereotyped language, parroting, et cetera. A language communication disorder is a major symptom of ASD and is the most common reason for patients to visit a doctor. Therefore, language intervention training and communication skills have been made a cornerstone of autism intervention. However, a literature search has revealed that most studies only examine certain intervention methods or a combination of two or three intervention methods, which cannot be used by therapists or rehabilitation teachers. Therefore, this article summarizes relevant literature on language communication training for ASD children at home and abroad and briefly introduces the characteristics and training methods of language disorders in children with ASD in order to provide some ideas and references for relevant researchers and practitioners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengmeng Cui
- Department of Rehabilitation, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Taian, Shandong, China
| | - Qingbin Ni
- The Affiliated Taian City Central Hospital of Qingdao University, Taian, Shandong, China
| | - Qian Wang
- The Affiliated Taian City Central Hospital of Qingdao University, Taian, Shandong, China
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Thom RP, Wu M, Ravichandran C, McDougle CJ. Clozapine for treatment refractory catatonia in individuals with autism spectrum disorder: a retrospective chart review study. Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol 2023; 16:865-875. [PMID: 37526285 DOI: 10.1080/17512433.2023.2243820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Catatonia is increasingly recognized in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Empirical data on treating catatonia in this population are limited. The purpose of this study is to provide naturalistic data on the use of clozapine for the treatment of catatonia in patients with ASD. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Medical records of 12 individuals with ASD and catatonia who received treatment with clozapine were reviewed. Treatment response to clozapine was rated by assigning a retrospective Clinical Global Impression Improvement scale (CGI-I) score. RESULTS Mean (SD) and median (IQR) age at initiation of clozapine treatment were 22.1 (7.7) and 20.4 (9.7) years, with a range of 10-39 years. Eleven of the 12 patients had received treatment with lorazepam prior to initiating clozapine and 9 of the 12 patients received concomitant treatment with lorazepam and clozapine. Eleven of the 12 patients (92%; 95% CI: 65%, 99%) responded to clozapine. All 12 patients remained on clozapine at the time of their most recent clinical note. All 12 patients (100%; 95% CI: 76%, 100%) experienced one or more adverse events, the most common of which was sedation (n = 11, 92%). CONCLUSIONS Overall, clozapine was associated with a high response rate for the treatment of catatonia in patients with ASD. These naturalistic data support the use of clozapine for the treatment of catatonia in patients with ASD for whom lorazepam is either ineffective or partially effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robyn P Thom
- Lurie Center for Autism, Lexington, MA, USA
- Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Michael Wu
- Lurie Center for Autism, Lexington, MA, USA
- Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Caitlin Ravichandran
- Lurie Center for Autism, Lexington, MA, USA
- Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
| | - Christopher J McDougle
- Lurie Center for Autism, Lexington, MA, USA
- Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Luccarelli J, McCoy TH, Henry ME, Smith F, Beach SR, Fernandez-Robles C. The use of electroconvulsive therapy for children and adolescents in general hospitals: A 2019 kids' inpatient database analysis. Gen Hosp Psychiatry 2023; 82:95-100. [PMID: 37004416 PMCID: PMC10112738 DOI: 10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2023.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) devices are classified as class II (moderate risk) for the treatment of depressive disorders and catatonia in patients aged 13 and older, but it is unknown how often the treatment is utilized by child and adolescent patients. The aim of this study was to examine the demographics of child and adolescent hospitalizations involving ECT, the medical and psychiatric comorbidities of these hospitalizations, and the overall number of treatments administered per hospitalization. METHOD The 2019 Kids' Inpatient Database, a national sample of pediatric discharges from 3998 acute care hospitals, was analyzed for hospitalizations involving patients aged 19 and younger receiving ECT based on inpatient procedural codes. RESULTS 315 (95% confidence interval 275 to 354) discharges among child and adolescent patients, or 0.03% of youth hospitalizations, involved the administration of ECT in the KID in 2019. Hospitalizations in the Northeast, those involving patients residing in ZIP codes in the top income quartile, and those for commercially insured patients had higher odds of ECT administration. Primary discharge diagnoses among ECT recipients were major depressive disorder (143; 46.4%), schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders (71; 23.1%) and bipolar disorder (59; 19.2%). In total 153 (48.6%) of ECT recipients had a coded diagnosis of suicidal ideation. Hospitalizations involved a median of 2 (IQR 1 to 5) ECT treatments before discharge. CONCLUSIONS ECT is rarely utilized in the inpatient treatment of child and adolescent patients, but is most often administered to patients with mood and psychotic disorders. Commercial insurance and higher income were associated with higher odds of ECT administration, suggesting that access to care may be limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Luccarelli
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Thomas H McCoy
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Michael E Henry
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Felicia Smith
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Scott R Beach
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Carlos Fernandez-Robles
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Faulkner Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
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Fong A, Friedlander R, Richardson A, Allen K, Zhang Q. Characteristics of children with autism and unspecified intellectual developmental disorder (intellectual disability) presenting with severe self-injurious behaviours. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2022; 70:518-529. [PMID: 38699500 PMCID: PMC11062266 DOI: 10.1080/20473869.2022.2113321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
Objective: This study aims to delineate the characteristics of severe self-injurious behaviors (SIB) in a cohort of children with autism and unspecified intellectual developmental disorder (UIDD) (intellectual disability) and examine potential risk factors for developing SIB. Methods: A retrospective chart review studied characteristics of severe SIB in 30 children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and UIDD referred to a tertiary care center. Characteristics examined include genetic syndromes, brain MRI abnormalities, verbal ability, adaptive functioning, SIB frequency and severity, age of onset, number of psychopharmacological agents, irritability, hyperactivity, stereotypy, psychiatric and physical comorbidities, among others. Descriptive and bivariate analysis were applied to explore potential relationships between factors. Results: Children with severe SIB exhibit this behaviour with high frequency, inflicting moderate to severe injury. Most children in the study sample are non-verbal and have ASD (93.3%; n = 28) with psychiatric (96.7%; n = 29) and physical (90%; n = 27) comorbidities. Overall SIB improvement using the Clinical Global Impression, Improvement Score (CGI-I) was 3.0 (minimally improved). A minority were much or very much improved following appropriate intervention. Conclusions: The severity of SIB is much higher in this sample than previously noted in the literature. Severe SIB is associated with ADHD, early onset mood disorders, tics, avoidant restrictive food intake disorder and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison Fong
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | | | | | - Katie Allen
- British Columbia Children’s Hospital, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Qian Zhang
- British Columbia Children’s Hospital Research Institute Clinical Research Support Unit, Vancouver, Canada
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Joung KW, Park DH, Jeong CY, Yang HS. Anesthetic care for electroconvulsive therapy. Anesth Pain Med (Seoul) 2022; 17:145-156. [PMID: 35538655 PMCID: PMC9091667 DOI: 10.17085/apm.22145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Counselling and medication are often thought of as the only interventions for psychiatric disorders, but electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) has also been applied in clinical practice for over 80 years. ECT refers to the application of an electric stimulus through the patient’s scalp to treat psychiatric disorders such as treatment-resistant depression, catatonia, and schizophrenia. It is a safe, effective, and evidence-based therapy performed under general anesthesia with muscle relaxation. An appropriate level of anesthesia is essential for safe and successful ECT; however, little is known about this because of the limited interest from anesthesiologists. As the incidence of ECT increases, more anesthesiologists will be required to better understand the physiological changes, complications, and pharmacological actions of anesthetics and adjuvant drugs. Therefore, this review focuses on the fundamental physiological changes, management, and pharmacological actions associated with various drugs, such as anesthetics and neuromuscular blocking agents, as well as the comorbidities, indications, contraindications, and complications of using these agents as part of an ECT procedure through a literature review and our own experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyoung-Woon Joung
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Dong Ho Park
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Daejeon Eulji Medical Center, Eulji University School of Medicine, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Chang Young Jeong
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Daejeon Eulji Medical Center, Eulji University School of Medicine, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Hong Seuk Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Daejeon Eulji Medical Center, Eulji University School of Medicine, Daejeon, Korea
- Corresponding author Hong Seuk Yang, M.D., Ph.D. Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Daejeon Eulji Medical Center, Eulji University School of Medicine, 95 Dunsanseo-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon 35233, Korea Tel: 82-42-611-3881, Fax: 82-42-259-1111 E-mail:
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Catatonia with Psychosis in an 8-Year-Old Child: A Case Report and a Literature Review. Case Rep Psychiatry 2022; 2022:4124733. [PMID: 35371578 PMCID: PMC8975680 DOI: 10.1155/2022/4124733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective We present a narrative review of pediatric catatonia and a case report illustrating the complexity of management of psychosis in a child with catatonia. Method The literature search used the text terms pediatric, catatonia, and antipsychotics and the search engines PubMed and EBSCO. All references from peer-reviewed journals were reviewed for treatment strategies specific to management in children who are also psychotic. Findings. This 8-year-old girl presented with psychotic symptoms which were initially treated with antipsychotics and evolved into life-threatening catatonia that was eventually stabilized with a total daily dose of 46 mg of lorazepam. Lower doses led to recurrence. Once catatonia improved, she tolerated combined benzodiazepine and antipsychotic treatment. Long-term maintenance over 5 years required maintenance treatment with both benzodiazepines and antipsychotics to prevent relapse. Conclusions The extraordinary doses of benzodiazepines found to be optimal for management of catatonia in this child led to improved alertness and orientation, without evident sedation. Catatonia did not recur with later management of psychosis using neuroleptics when added to lorazepam. The current literature on pediatric catatonia does not provide guidance on dose maintenance or when and if to rechallenge with antipsychotics.
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Vaquerizo-Serrano J, Salazar De Pablo G, Singh J, Santosh P. Catatonia in autism spectrum disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur Psychiatry 2021; 65:e4. [PMID: 34906264 PMCID: PMC8792870 DOI: 10.1192/j.eurpsy.2021.2259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Catatonic features can appear in autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). There can be overlap in symptoms across catatonia and ASD. The overall aim of this review is to provide evidence for the presence of catatonic features in subjects with ASD. METHODS A systematic literature search using the Web of Science database from inception to July 10, 2021 was conducted following PRISMA, MOOSE guidelines and the PROSPERO protocol. (CRD42021248615). Twelve studies with information about catatonia and ASD were reviewed. Data from a subset was used to conduct meta-analyses of the presence of catatonia in ASD. RESULTS The systematic review included 12 studies, seven of which were used for the meta-analysis, comprising 969 individuals. The mean age was 21.25 (7.5) years. Two studies (16.6%) included only children and adolescents. A total of 70-100% were males. Our meta-analysis showed that 10.4% (5.8-18.0 95%CI) of individuals with ASD have catatonia. Motor disturbances were common in ASD subjects with catatonia. No differences were found in comorbidity. Several treatments have been used in ASD with catatonic features, including benzodiazepines, antipsychotics, and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). The findings of the systematic review showed that ECT might help manage catatonic symptoms. CONCLUSIONS Different features of catatonia can exist in individuals with ASD and core symptoms of catatonia are reported in ASD. Longitudinal and longer-term studies are required to understand the relationship between catatonia and ASD, and the response of catatonic symptoms to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Vaquerizo-Serrano
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry,
Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, LondonSE5 8AF, United Kingdom
- Centre for Interventional Paediatric Psychopharmacology and Rare Diseases
(CIPPRD), National and Specialist Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services, Maudsley
Hospital, LondonSE5 8AB, United Kingdom
- Early Psychosis: Interventions and Clinical-Detection (EPIC) Lab, Department of
Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College
London, LondonSE5 8AF, United Kingdom
- Institute of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, Hospital
General Universitario Gregorio Marañón Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio
Maranón, Universidad Complutense, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Salud Mental
(CIBERSAM), 28009Madrid, Spain
| | - G. Salazar De Pablo
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry,
Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, LondonSE5 8AF, United Kingdom
- Early Psychosis: Interventions and Clinical-Detection (EPIC) Lab, Department of
Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College
London, LondonSE5 8AF, United Kingdom
- Institute of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, Hospital
General Universitario Gregorio Marañón Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio
Maranón, Universidad Complutense, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Salud Mental
(CIBERSAM), 28009Madrid, Spain
| | - J. Singh
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry,
Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, LondonSE5 8AF, United Kingdom
- Centre for Interventional Paediatric Psychopharmacology and Rare Diseases
(CIPPRD), National and Specialist Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services, Maudsley
Hospital, LondonSE5 8AB, United Kingdom
| | - P. Santosh
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry,
Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, LondonSE5 8AF, United Kingdom
- Centre for Interventional Paediatric Psychopharmacology and Rare Diseases
(CIPPRD), National and Specialist Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services, Maudsley
Hospital, LondonSE5 8AB, United Kingdom
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14
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Døssing E, Pagsberg AK. Electroconvulsive Therapy in Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review of Current Literature and Guidelines. J ECT 2021; 37:158-170. [PMID: 34424874 DOI: 10.1097/yct.0000000000000761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT There is a lack of studies regarding the efficacy of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in children and adolescents. In this study, we aimed to assess benefits and harms of ECT in children and adolescents with major psychiatric diseases. We conducted a systematic search in PubMed, EMBASE, and PsycINFO for peer-reviewed articles written in English regarding the use of ECT as treatment for major psychiatric diseases in children and adolescents. This study consists of 192 articles, mostly case studies (n = 50), reviews and overview articles (n = 52), and retrospective studies (n = 30). We present an overview of evidence for ECT in children and adolescents with mood disorders, catatonia, schizophrenia, intellectual disability, self-injurious behavior, and other indications. This article is also a summary of international guidelines regarding the use of ECT in children and adolescents. We evaluated the overall quality of evidence by using Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations and found the overall level of evidence to be of low quality. There are no absolute contra indications for ECT in children and adolescents. Fears regarding cognitive dysfunction have not been reproduced in studies. Electroconvulsive therapy should be considered in severe, treatment-resistant mood disorders, catatonia, and schizophrenia, especially in older adolescents. High-quality studies are warranted to assess the efficacy of ECT, especially in these potentially life-threatening diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik Døssing
- From the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Centre, Mental Health Services, Zealand Region, Roskilde
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15
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Persico AM, Ricciardello A, Lamberti M, Turriziani L, Cucinotta F, Brogna C, Vitiello B, Arango C. The pediatric psychopharmacology of autism spectrum disorder: A systematic review - Part I: The past and the present. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2021; 110:110326. [PMID: 33857522 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2021.110326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a severe and lifelong neurodevelopmental disorder, with high social costs and a dramatic burden on the quality of life of patients and family members. Despite its high prevalence, reaching 1/54 children and 1/45 adults in the United States, no pharmacological treatment is still directed to core symptoms of ASD, encompassing social and communication deficits, repetitive behaviors, restricted interests, and abnormal sensory processing. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the state-of-the-art of psychopharmacological therapy available today for ASD in children and adolescents, in order to foster best practices and to organize new strategies for future research. To date, atypical antipsychotics such as risperidone and aripiprazole represent the first line of intervention for hyperactivity, impulsivity, agitation, temper outbursts or aggression towards self or others. Tricyclic antidepressants are less prescribed because of uncertain efficacy and important side effects. SSRIs, especially fluoxetine and sertraline, may be effective in treating repetitive behaviors (anxiety and obsessive-compulsive symptoms) and irritability/agitation, while mirtazapine is more helpful with sleep problems. Low doses of buspirone have shown some efficacy on restrictive and repetitive behaviors in combination with behavioral interventions. Stimulants, and to a lesser extent atomoxetine, are effective in reducing hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity also in comorbid ASD-ADHD, although with somewhat lower efficacy and greater incidence of side effects compared to idiopathic ADHD. Clonidine and guanfacine display some efficacy on hyperactivity and stereotypic behaviors. For several other drugs, case reports and open-label studies suggest possible efficacy, but no randomized controlled trial has yet been performed. Research in the pediatric psychopharmacology of ASD is still faced with at least two major hurdles: (a) Great interindividual variability in clinical response and side effect sensitivity is observed in the ASD population. This low level of predictability would benefit from symptom-specific treatment algorithms and from biomarkers to support drug choice; (b) To this date, no psychoactive drug appears to directly ameliorate core autism symptoms, although some indirect improvement has been reported with several drugs, once the comorbid target symptom is abated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio M Persico
- Interdepartmental Program "Autism 0-90", "G. Martino" University Hospital, University of Messina, Italy.
| | - Arianna Ricciardello
- Interdepartmental Program "Autism 0-90", "G. Martino" University Hospital, University of Messina, Italy
| | - Marco Lamberti
- Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Unit, "Franz Tappeiner" Hospital, Merano (BZ), Italy
| | - Laura Turriziani
- Interdepartmental Program "Autism 0-90", "G. Martino" University Hospital, University of Messina, Italy
| | - Francesca Cucinotta
- Interdepartmental Program "Autism 0-90", "G. Martino" University Hospital, University of Messina, Italy
| | - Claudia Brogna
- Pediatric Neurology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy; Neuropsychiatric Unit -ASL Avellino, Avellino (AV), Italy
| | - Benedetto Vitiello
- Department of Public Health and Pediatric Sciences, Section of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Celso Arango
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department, Institute of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, School of Medicine Universidad Complutense, IiSGM, CIBERSAM, Madrid, Spain
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16
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Bean E, Findlay C, Gee C, Amin J. Refractory catatonia in old age: a case report. J Med Case Rep 2021; 15:406. [PMID: 34389061 PMCID: PMC8364076 DOI: 10.1186/s13256-021-03000-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Catatonia is a clinical syndrome characterized by psychomotor disruption, which often goes undiagnosed. Most reports have focused on interventions and outcomes for catatonia in younger people and those with schizophrenia. The clinical characteristics and course of catatonia in old age are poorly understood. We present a report of an older person whose catatonia was refractory to extensive treatment, and we identify important implications for the management of catatonia in old age. CASE PRESENTATION We describe a 73-year-old white man with longstanding autistic spectrum disorder who presented with symptoms of depression. Following a period of diagnostic uncertainty and failure to improve with antidepressant medication, a lorazepam challenge yielded an abrupt improvement in presentation. The patient was treated extensively with lorazepam, zolpidem, and electroconvulsive therapy during his 16-month hospital admission, but his catatonia ultimately proved refractory to treatment. CONCLUSIONS Catatonia should be considered promptly as a differential diagnosis in older people presenting with atypical features of functional mental illness. Although partial improvement of catatonic features was achieved using benzodiazepines and electroconvulsive therapy, these were not sustained in our patient. We identified comorbid autistic spectrum disorder, prolonged duration of catatonia, and sensitivity to benzodiazepines as important factors in prognostication in old age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Bean
- University Hospitals Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK.,Memory Assessment and Research Centre, Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Callum Findlay
- University Hospitals Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK.,Memory Assessment and Research Centre, Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Claire Gee
- Memory Assessment and Research Centre, Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Jay Amin
- Memory Assessment and Research Centre, Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK. .,Clinical Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.
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17
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Abstract
ABSTRACT Catatonia is a motor and mood disorder of behavior increasingly recognized in systemic medically ill. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome, delirious mania, self injurious behaviors in autism, and limbic encephalitis are conditions in which ECT-responsive catatonia is increasingly recognized and effectively treated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max Fink
- From the Departments of Psychiatry and Neurology, Stony Brook University School of Medicine, Stony Brook, NY
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18
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Trivedi C, Manikkara G, Zhang M, Mansuri Z, Jain S. ECT Utilization in the Treatment of Catatonic Patients in the United States: A Nationwide In-Patient Sample Analysis. J ECT 2021; 37:107-111. [PMID: 33661185 DOI: 10.1097/yct.0000000000000753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Primary objective was to evaluate baseline characteristics for catatonic patients treated with and without electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). We also studied the trends of ECT utilization in catatonia patients. METHODS The Nationwide Inpatient Sample data were used to compare patients and hospital-level characteristics between catatonic patients treated with and without ECT in the United States. Multivariate and trend analysis were performed. RESULTS Electroconvulsive therapy was performed in 8.3% in patients with the diagnosis of catatonia (n = 24,311; mean age, 43.1; 38% White; 52.1% male). Racially, more patients in the ECT group were White (47% vs 38%) and had a comorbid diagnosis of major depressive disorder. In the multivariate analysis, the odds of receiving ECT was more with increase in age (P = 0.007). Urban area hospitals had 3 times higher odds of receiving ECT (P = 0.001) compared with rural hospitals. The odds of receiving ECT for catatonia were the highest for large bed hospitals compared with small/medium size (P < 0.001). In the trend analysis, catatonia patients undergoing ECT decreased initially from 7.0% in 2002 to 2005 to 5.2% in 2006 to 2009. After that, there was an upward trend with 10.6% patients undergoing ECT in the quarter 2014 to 2017. There was an upward trend in ECT utilization for catatonic patients with comorbid bipolar disorders and psychotic disorders. CONCLUSIONS Electroconvulsive therapy is underutilized for catatonia treatment in the United States. White catatonic patients are most likely to get ECT at an urban large bed hospital. In recent years, there is an upward trend in the use of ECT. Additional controlled clinical trials are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Geetha Manikkara
- Department of Psychiatry, Texas Tech University Health Science Center at Odessa/Permian Basin, Odessa, TX
| | - Mingxu Zhang
- Department of Psychiatry, Texas Tech University Health Science Center at Odessa/Permian Basin, Odessa, TX
| | - Zeeshan Mansuri
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston Children's Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Shailesh Jain
- Department of Psychiatry, Texas Tech University Health Science Center at Odessa/Permian Basin, Odessa, TX
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19
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Abstract
Catatonia was first described by Karl Ludwig Kahlbaum in 1874, occurring in association with other psychiatric and medical disorders. However, in the nineteenth century the disorder was incorrectly classified as a subtype of schizophrenia. This misclassification persisted until the publication of DSM-5 in 2013 when important changes were incorporated. Although the etiology is unknown, disrupted gamma-aminobutyric acid has been proposed as the underlying pathophysiological mechanism. Key symptoms can be identified under 3 clinical domains: motor, speech, and behavioral. Benzodiazepines and electroconvulsive therapy are the only known effective treatments. Timely recognition and treatment have important outcome, and sometimes lifesaving, implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neera Ghaziuddin
- University of Michigan, University of Michigan Medical Center, 4250 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
| | - Laura Andersen
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, 1500 E Medical Center Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48108, USA
| | - Mohammad Ghaziuddin
- University of Michigan, University of Michigan Medical Center, 4250 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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20
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Wachtel LE. Far From an Elective Procedure: Electroconvulsive Therapy and Autism in the Era of COVID-19. J ECT 2021; 37:10-12. [PMID: 32826708 PMCID: PMC7889038 DOI: 10.1097/yct.0000000000000720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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21
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Abstract
The mechanism of action of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is not fully elucidated, with prevailing theories ranging from neuroendocrinological to neuroplasticity effects of ECT or epileptiform brain plasticity. Youth with autism can present with catatonia. ECT is a treatment that can safely and rapidly resolve catatonia in autism and should be considered promptly. The literature available for ECT use in youth with autism is consistently growing. Under-recognition of the catatonic syndrome and delayed diagnosis and implementation of the anticatatonic treatment paradigms, including ECT, as well as stigma and lack of knowledge of ECT remain clinical stumbling blocks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sa Eun Park
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, 1741 Ashland Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
| | - Marco Grados
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 733 North Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Lee Wachtel
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, 707 North Broadway Street, Baltimore, MD 21209, USA
| | - Sanjay Kaji
- Johns Hopkins Hospital, 1800 Orleans Street, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
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22
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Traverso A, Ancora C, Zanato S, Raffagnato A, Gatta M. Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenges of Catatonia in an Adolescent With High Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Case Report. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:644727. [PMID: 34149473 PMCID: PMC8211461 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.644727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Catatonia is a psychomotor syndrome with specific clusters of speech, behavioral and motor features. Although potentially life-threatening, especially in its malignant form accompanied with autonomic dysregulation and medical complications, it is a treatable condition, when promptly identified. For a long time catatonia was considered a marker of schizophrenia, thus limiting the possibility of diagnosis and treatment. Due to growing awareness and studies on the subject, it is now known that catatonia can occur in the context of a number of diseases, including psychotic, affective and neurodevelopmental disorders. In recent years, there's been a renewed interest in the recognition and definition of catatonia in neurodevelopmental disorders, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), where the differential diagnosis poses great challenges, given the considerable overlapping of signs and symptoms between the conditions. We present the case of a 15 year old boy with High Functioning ASD with a sudden onset of severe catatonic symptoms and the co-existence of psychotic symptoms, whose complex clinical course raises many questions on the differentiation and relation of said disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalisa Traverso
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Padua University Hospital, Padua, Italy
| | - Caterina Ancora
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Padua University Hospital, Padua, Italy
| | - Silvia Zanato
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Padua University Hospital, Padua, Italy
| | - Alessia Raffagnato
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Padua University Hospital, Padua, Italy
| | - Michela Gatta
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Padua University Hospital, Padua, Italy
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23
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Ghaziuddin N, Yaqub T, Shamseddeen W, Reddy P, Reynard H, Maixner D. Maintenance Electroconvulsive Therapy Is an Essential Medical Treatment for Patients With Catatonia: A COVID-19 Related Experience. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:670476. [PMID: 34335326 PMCID: PMC8319714 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.670476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: Describe naturalistic clinical course over 14 weeks in a mixed adolescent and a young-adult patient group diagnosed with developmental delays and catatonia, when the frequency of maintenance electroconvulsive therapy (M-ECT) was reduced secondary to 2020 COVID-19 pandemic restrictions. Methods: Participants were diagnosed with catatonia, and were receiving care in a specialized clinic. They (n = 9), F = 5, and M = 4, ranged in age from 16 to 21 years; ECT frequency was reduced at end of March 2020 due to institutional restrictions. Two parents/caregivers elected to discontinue ECT due to concern for COVID-19 transmission. Majority (n = 8) were developmentally delayed with some degree of intellectual disability (ID). Observable symptoms were rated on a three point scale during virtual visits. Results: All cases experienced clinically significant decline. Worsening of motor symptoms (agitation, aggression, slowness, repetitive self-injury, stereotypies, speech deficits) emerged within the first 3 weeks, persisted over the 14 week observation period and were more frequent than neurovegetative symptoms (appetite, incontinence, sleep). Four participants deteriorated requiring rehospitalization, and 2 among these 4 needed a gastrostomy feeding tube. Conclusion: Moderate and severe symptoms became apparent in all 9 cases during the observation period; medication adjustments were ineffective; resuming M-ECT at each participant's baseline schedule, usually by week 7, resulted in progressive improvement in some cases but the improvement was insufficient to prevent re-hospitalization in 4 cases. In summary, rapid deterioration was noted when M-ECT was acutely reduced in the setting of COVID-19 related restrictions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neera Ghaziuddin
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Tareq Yaqub
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | | | - Priyanka Reddy
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Hannah Reynard
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Daniel Maixner
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
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24
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Ghaziuddin M. Catatonia: A Common Cause of Late Regression in Autism. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:674009. [PMID: 34777033 PMCID: PMC8585308 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.674009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by social communication deficits and restricted interests and behaviors which begin very early in life. In about a quarter of cases, the symptoms emerge about 18-24 months after a period of normal development, a phenomenon commonly described as early regression. However, marked functional decline can also occur in persons with autism after a relatively stable childhood. As opposed to early regression, which occurs in normally developing children, late regression occurs typically in adolescents with an established diagnosis of autism. Apart from their occasional mention in the literature, these individuals have not been examined systematically. This Brief Report describes the presentation, comorbidity and short-term outcome of 20 persons with ASD who developed late regression. The mean age of onset of regression was 13 years. One of the earliest symptoms was an increase in obsessive slowing and compulsive rituals. Other symptoms included motor abnormalities, aggression and mood disturbance. The most common comorbid disorder was catatonia occurring in 17 patients. Despite treatment with several modalities, the outcome was often suboptimal. These findings suggest that catatonia is a common cause of late regression in persons with autism. Clinical and research implications are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Ghaziuddin
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
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25
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Abstract
Catatonia was buried within the confines of schizophrenia for over a century- deterring study, appropriate diagnosis and treatment for many years. With revised changes in the classification of this distinct neuropsychiatric syndrome, it is becoming more recognized clinically and in ongoing research. Catatonia occurs among various psychiatric, metabolic or neurologic conditions. It may present in many forms, including neuroleptic malignant syndrome. Treatment with benzodiazepines or electroconvulsive therapy usually produces dramatic and rapid response, although systematic, randomized trials are lacking. The role of antipsychotic agents in treatment is controversial as they may worsen the syndrome. An important unresolved clinical question is the diagnosis and treatment of catatonia in the setting of delirium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles Mormando
- Department of Psychiatry, Penn State Medical School, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Andrew Francis
- Department of Psychiatry, Penn State Medical School, Hershey, PA, USA
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26
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Ghaziuddin N, Andersen L, Ghaziuddin M. Catatonia in Patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Child Adolesc Psychiatr Clin N Am 2020; 29:443-454. [PMID: 32471594 DOI: 10.1016/j.chc.2020.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Catatonia was first described by Karl Ludwig Kahlbaum in 1874, occurring in association with other psychiatric and medical disorders. However, in the nineteenth century the disorder was incorrectly classified as a subtype of schizophrenia. This misclassification persisted until the publication of DSM-5 in 2013 when important changes were incorporated. Although the etiology is unknown, disrupted gamma-aminobutyric acid has been proposed as the underlying pathophysiological mechanism. Key symptoms can be identified under 3 clinical domains: motor, speech, and behavioral. Benzodiazepines and electroconvulsive therapy are the only known effective treatments. Timely recognition and treatment have important outcome, and sometimes lifesaving, implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neera Ghaziuddin
- University of Michigan, University of Michigan Medical Center, 4250 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
| | - Laura Andersen
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, 1500 E Medical Center Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48108, USA
| | - Mohammad Ghaziuddin
- University of Michigan, University of Michigan Medical Center, 4250 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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27
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Abstract
The mechanism of action of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is not fully elucidated, with prevailing theories ranging from neuroendocrinological to neuroplasticity effects of ECT or epileptiform brain plasticity. Youth with autism can present with catatonia. ECT is a treatment that can safely and rapidly resolve catatonia in autism and should be considered promptly. The literature available for ECT use in youth with autism is consistently growing. Under-recognition of the catatonic syndrome and delayed diagnosis and implementation of the anticatatonic treatment paradigms, including ECT, as well as stigma and lack of knowledge of ECT remain clinical stumbling blocks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sa Eun Park
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, 1741 Ashland Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
| | - Marco Grados
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 733 North Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Lee Wachtel
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, 707 North Broadway Street, Baltimore, MD 21209, USA
| | - Sanjay Kaji
- Johns Hopkins Hospital, 1800 Orleans Street, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
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28
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Electroconvulsive Therapy in Children and Adolescents: Clinical Indications and Special Considerations. Harv Rev Psychiatry 2020; 27:354-358. [PMID: 31714466 DOI: 10.1097/hrp.0000000000000236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a well-tolerated, well-established, and efficacious treatment in adults, particularly in the setting of severe mood and psychotic disorders. In children and adolescents, however, ECT is infrequently administered and likely underutilized. Results from older studies evaluating the utility of ECT in children and adolescents were mixed, but recent studies have supported ECT treatment success in these patients, with particularly high response rates for treating depression. In this Perspectives, we discuss the current clinical indications for ECT in managing mood and psychotic disorders in children and adolescents. We then review the pretreatment evaluation and management of patients receiving ECT and examine the efficacy of ECT for those indications. We also address issues unique to children and adolescents, versus adults, that need to be considered when determining whether treatment with ECT is appropriate for a patient in this age group. Included in this context are the distinct side-effect profile in children and adolescents, ethical issues regarding informed consent, incorporating the child into the decision-making process when developmentally appropriate, and the need to take into account differing state jurisdictional processes.
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29
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to report the efficacy and safety of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in manic, depressed, psychotic, and catatonic adolescent patients. METHODS Medical records of 78 adolescents who had received ECT in Department of Psychiatry, Gaziantep University Medical Faculty, during 2011 to 2017 were reviewed. Sixty-two subjects in this sample were identified to have complete records and met the study inclusion criteria. RESULTS The mean ± SD age of subjects was 17.11 ± 1.04 years and female sex was 53.2% (n = 33). Primary the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision or the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition diagnoses were bipolar mood disorders (n = 33, 53.2%), major depressive disorder (n = 16, 25.8%), schizophrenia (n = 8, 12.9%), and schizoaffective disorders (n = 5, 8.1%). Electroconvulsive therapy was significantly effective in treating manic, depressive, psychotic, and catatonia symptoms as evidenced by significant differences in pretreatment and posttreatment scores in outcome measures including Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, Young Mania Rating Scale, Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale, and Clinical Global Impression-Severity Scale (P < 0.001). Presence of comorbidity adversely affected treatment response (P = 0.001). However, ECT was also effective in those with comorbid diagnoses (P < 0.001). Depressive symptoms in patients with bipolar depression responded better than those with unipolar depression (P = 0.012). Electroconvulsive therapy was generally safe with subjective memory complaints (85%), headache (69%), and prolonged seizure (8%) as the reported adverse effects possibly related to ECT. Four subjects (6%) developed a manic switch during ECT. CONCLUSIONS Electroconvulsive therapy is an effective and a safe treatment option in adolescent patients with severe and resistant psychopathology. Although comorbidity may decrease treatment response, ECT seems to be effective even in the presence of multiple psychiatric diagnoses.
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Abstract
Catatonia and its treatment in patients with autism spectrum disorders are poorly documented in the child psychiatry literature. Étienne is a 13-year-and-10-months-old adolescent who was diagnosed with autism at an early age. He presents recurrent episodes of stuporous catatonia aggravating major motor agitation type behavioural disorders.
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Hutchison L, Silber Y, Rollhaus E, Gnerre C. Amantadine Augmentation in Pediatric Catatonia: A Case Report and Review of the Literature. PSYCHOSOMATICS 2020; 61:193-199. [PMID: 31543245 DOI: 10.1016/j.psym.2019.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Revised: 08/06/2019] [Accepted: 08/06/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Hutchison
- Department of Psychiatry, Montefiore Medical Center and Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY.
| | | | - Esther Rollhaus
- Department of Psychiatry, Montefiore Medical Center and Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY
| | - Carolyn Gnerre
- Department of Psychiatry, Montefiore Medical Center and Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY
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32
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Lloyd JR, Silverman ER, Kugler JL, Cooper JJ. Electroconvulsive Therapy for Patients with Catatonia: Current Perspectives. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2020; 16:2191-2208. [PMID: 33061390 PMCID: PMC7526008 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s231573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Catatonia is a serious, common syndrome of motoric and behavioral dysfunction, which carries high morbidity and mortality. Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is the definitive treatment for catatonia, but access to ECT for the treatment of catatonia remains inappropriately limited. Catatonia is observable, detectable, and relevant to various medical specialties, but underdiagnosis impedes the delivery of appropriate treatment and heightens risk of serious complications including iatrogenesis. Current understanding of catatonia's pathophysiology links it to the current understanding of ECT's mechanism of action. Definitive catatonia care requires recognition of the syndrome, workup to identify and treat the underlying cause, and effective management including appropriate referral for ECT. Even when all of these conditions are met, and despite well-established data on the safety and efficacy of ECT, stigma surrounding ECT and legal restrictions for its use in catatonia are additional critical barriers. Addressing the underdiagnosis of catatonia and barriers to its treatment with ECT is vital to improving outcomes for patients. While no standardized protocols for treatment of catatonia with ECT exist, a large body of research guides evidence-based care and reveals where additional research is warranted. The authors conducted a review of the literature on ECT as a treatment for catatonia. Based on the review, the authors offer strategies and future directions for improving access to ECT for patients with catatonia, and propose an algorithm for the treatment of catatonia with ECT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenifer R Lloyd
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Eric R Silverman
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Joseph L Kugler
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas-Dell Medical School, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Joseph J Cooper
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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33
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Surya S, Bishnoi R, Rosenquist PB, McCall WV. Uses of Electroconvulsive Therapy in Conditions Other than Major Depressive Episode. Psychiatr Ann 2019. [DOI: 10.3928/00485713-20190314-02] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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34
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Miles JH, Takahashi N, Muckerman J, Nowell KP, Ithman M. Catatonia in Down syndrome: systematic approach to diagnosis, treatment and outcome assessment based on a case series of seven patients. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2019; 15:2723-2741. [PMID: 31571888 PMCID: PMC6759875 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s210613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The goal is to expand our knowledge of catatonia occurring in adolescents and young adults with Down syndrome (DS) by describing the first prospective, consecutive, well-characterized cohort of seven young people with DS diagnosed with catatonia and treated between 2013 and 2018, and to assess each patient's treatment responses. Longitudinal assessment of each patient's response to treatment is intended to provide clinicians and psychiatrists a firm foundation from which assess treatment efficacy. STUDY DESIGN Young adults with Down syndrome were consecutively enrolled in the study as they were diagnosed with catatonia. A comprehensive data set included medical, laboratory, developmental, demographic, family, social and genetic data, including query into disorders for which individuals with DS are at risk. Catatonia was diagnosed based on an unequivocal history of regression, positive Bush-Francis Catatonia Rating Scale and positive response to intravenous lorazepam. Patients' longitudinal progress was monitored using the Catatonia Impact Scale (CIS) developed for this purpose. RESULTS Seven consecutive DS patients, who presented with unequivocal regression were diagnosed with catatonia and treated for 2.7-6 years using standard-of-care therapies; primarily GABA agonist, lorazepam, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and glutamate antagonists (dextromethorphan/quinidine, memantine, minocycline). Responses to each treatment modality were assessed at clinic visits and through weekly electronic CIS reports. CONCLUSION Seven young adults with DS were diagnosed with catatonia; all responded to Lorazepam and/or ECT therapy with good to very good results. Though ECT most dramatically returned patients to baseline, symptoms often returned requiring additional ECT. Dextromethorphan/quinidine, not used until mid-2017, appeared to reduce the reoccurrence of symptoms following ECT. Though all seven patients improved significantly, each continues to require some form of treatment to maintain a good level of functioning. Findings of a significant number of autoimmune disorders and laboratory markers of immune activation in this population may guide new diagnostic and treatment opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith H Miles
- Department of Child Health, University of Missouri Healthcare, Columbia, MO, USA.,Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Nicole Takahashi
- Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Julie Muckerman
- Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Kerri P Nowell
- Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA.,Department of Health Psychology, University of Missouri Healthcare, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Muaid Ithman
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Missouri Health Care, Columbia, MO, USA
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