Use of En-Bloc Multiple Monitored Electroconvulsive Therapy in Benzodiazepine Refractory Malignant Catatonia

Abstract

Abstract We report a case of an adolescent female experiencing benzodiazepine and single-stimulation electroconvulsive (ECT)–refractory malignant catatonia, who improved with the use multiple monitored ECT (mmECT). Per the 2001 American Psychiatric Association guidelines, mmECT should be considered only in cases of intractable seizures or neuroleptic malignant syndrome. Since 2001, neuroleptic malignant syndrome and malignant catatonia have been described as occurring along the same spectrum of illness. Therefore, given the life-threatening nature of her condition, as well as the brief seizure duration she experienced from single-stimulation ECT, the patient was treated with en-bloc and 2-stimulation mmECT. The patient demonstrated a significant improvement in response to this treatment, with her Bush-Francis Catatonia Rating Scale score decreasing by 89%. At 2-year follow-up in an outpatient neurodevelopmental catatonia clinic, the patient has been able to return to school in her previous advanced placement classes and has not required maintenance ECT.