

E234 - Diagnosis, Treatment, and Pathophysiology of Catatonia with Dr. Joan Striebel
8 snips Sep 18, 2024
Dr. Joan Striebel, a psychiatrist from the California Department of State Hospitals, dives deep into catatonia, a complex syndrome often misdiagnosed. She discusses different forms of catatonia, including retarded and excited types, and their connections to conditions like PTSD and bipolar disorder. The conversation emphasizes the crucial role of neurotransmitters and effective treatment options, particularly tailored benzodiazepines. Striebel also addresses the importance of clinician awareness to prevent misdiagnoses and improve patient outcomes.
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Catatonia Overview
- Catatonia is a syndrome of motor abnormalities linked to mood, thought, and cognitive issues.
- It presents with an underlying disorder in three forms: retarded (most common), excited, and malignant (most severe).
Alternating Catatonia
- Dr. Striebel describes a case of a patient alternating between stuporous and agitated states.
- This alternation, she notes, is a hallmark of catatonia, often mistaken for its absence.
Catatonic Stupor
- Catatonic stupor, unlike medical stupor, doesn't indicate reduced awareness.
- Patients often remain alert and can recall events after recovering.