Catatonia

This book, which exemplifies the unparalleled breadth of the knowledge gained, will benefit clinicians managing catatonic phenomena as well as researchers interested in pursuing further investigations. It covers in great detail the psychopathology and neurobiology of catatonia, focusing on the history, epidemiology, etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of the disorder. In addition to offering practical information for clinicians, Catatonia aims to stimulate new investigations. It includes a discussion of the genetics of catatonia as well as descriptions of little-known animal models useful for research on the disorder. Catatonia is uniquely suited for neuropsychiatric research: it is objectively observable, and responds dramatically to specific treatments. Promising and testable etiologic hypotheses have been proposed and may shed light on mechanisms underlying endogenous psychoses.