Hysteria presenting as a prodrome to catatonic stupor in a depressive patient resolved with electroconvulsive therapy

[Antipsychotic-induced motor symptoms in schizophrenic psychoses-Part 2 : Catatonic symptoms and neuroleptic malignant syndrome]

In rare cases, pharmacotherapy in schizophrenic psychoses can be associated with life-threatening antipsychotic-induced movement disorders. The two most severe complications are antipsychotic-associated catatonic symptoms (ACS) and neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS). Although both constellations necessitate rapid medical care, the diagnosis is still a clinical challenge. Although there is no established treatment of ACS (here designated as a specific subtype of catatonic symptoms), an attempt should be made with benzodiazepines and memantine can also be helpful. In severe drug-refractory cases electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) can be indicated. The NMS represents a life-threatening constellation that frequently requires intensive care unit treatment. The medicinal treatment with benzodiazepines, bromocriptine, amantadine, dantrolene and/or ECT is also advocated. Finally, this review article also summarizes the currently available literature for treatment of genuine catatonic symptoms. In conclusion, the abovementioned clinical syndromes must be rapidly recognized and treated. Early recognition and treatment of these movement disorders can under certain circumstances be lifesaving and favorably influence the later clinical outcome.

[Impaired consciousness associated with a hysterical conversion after obstetrical epidural analgesia: a case report with literature review]

The occurrence of impaired consciousness after epidural analgesia is an alarming situation that requires urgent diagnostic and therapeutic approach. Various causes may be responsible for such a state. Hysterical conversion remains an outstanding issue. Through a clinical case of a hysterical conversion and a literature review the authors draw attention to the difficulty of diagnosing this entity after epidural analgesia.