Erschienen in:
01.09.2008 | ORIGINAL CONTRIBUTION
Catatonia in autism: implications across the life span
verfasst von:
Angelina Kakooza-Mwesige, MB.Ch.B, M.Med, Lee E. Wachtel, M.D., Dirk M. Dhossche, M.D., Ph.D.
Erschienen in:
European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
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Ausgabe 6/2008
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Abstract
Background
There is increasing evidence that catatonia is an important source of impairment in adolescents and adults with autism.
Aim
Review of the evaluation, diagnosis, differential diagnosis, and treatment of catatonia in autism.
Method
Presentation and discussion of a case-vignette spanning early childhood to adulthood.
Results
Autistic and catatonic symptoms overlap, yet catatonia is diagnosable in about one of seven adolescents and young adults with autism. Case-reports suggest that benzodiazepines and electroconvulsive therapy are effective treatments in the acute and maintenance phase for people with autism who develop catatonia.
Conclusions
Catatonia should be assessed in people with autism when there is an obvious and marked deterioration in movement, vocalizations, pattern of activities, self-care, and practical skills. Benzodiazepines and electroconvulsive therapy are favored options for acute and maintenance treatment in these cases. Further studies on the possible biological-genetic overlap between autism and catatonia would be helpful.