A Case Of Catatonia Induced By Disulfiram

Although catatonia has predominantly been evaluated as a subtype of schizophrenia, many of general medical conditions, some of neurological diseases or medications may cause catatonia. Disulfiram is an agent that is being used in the treatment of alcohol dependency by its aversive effect. It may cause neuropsychiatric side effects such as psychosis or delirium. Catatonic sydrome is a rare side effect of disulfiram. This paper aimed to report a case turning into catatonic syndrome following cognitive deterioration. The patient had no prior psychiatric history except alcohol abuse and was using disulfiram in the last month. With the diagnosis of "catatonia induced by disulfiram", electroconvulsive therapy was applied. Full remission was obtained and the patient have been followed up without any medication. Concept of catatonia is discussed in this context.