Catatonia in clinical practice: from pathophysiology to treatment strategies

José E. Oliva-Barrios, Departamento de Psiquiatría, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, Mexico
Jesús F. Galván-Molina, Departamento de Psiquiatría, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, Mexico
Juan C. Hernández-Ruiz, Departamento de Psiquiatría, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, Mexico
María E. Jiménez-Capdeville, Secretaría de Investigación y Posgrado, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, Mexico

Catatonia is a complex neuropsychiatric syndrome involving motor, emotional, and behavioral symptoms. Once linked mainly to schizophrenia, it is now seen across various psychiatric, neurological, and medical conditions. Despite its prevalence, it remains underdiagnosed and undertreated, leading to serious health consequences. This review highlights the need for early recognition and intervention, discussing key diagnostic tools and treatments such as benzodiazepines and electroconvulsive therapy. It advocates for recognizing catatonia as a distinct clinical entity to improve clinical approach.

Keywords: Catatonia. Benzodiazepines. Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Psychomotor syndrome. Diagnosis.