Catatonia on the Consultation-Liaison Service: A Replication Study

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study is to identify the frequency, presentation, identification, treatment recommendations and outcome of patients with catatonia in the general hospital setting. Method: All patients seen on a consultation-liaison (C-L) service over a six-month period were screened prospectively for catatonic disorders. Research and DSM-IV criteria for catatonic disorder were applied. Treatment and outcome were naturalistic. Results: Five (1.6%) of 297 patients met restrictive criteria for catatonic disorder. Data were extracted from medical charts. Case reports are presented to reflect the diagnosis and treatment. Extensive medical treatment was required in most cases and most had an unfavorable outcome. Conclusion: Catatonia is infrequent but underrecognized in medical-surgical settings. The C-L clinician should screen for catatonic signs in order to diagnose and treat patients with the catatonic disorders.