Which condition is characterized by bizarre or frenzied movements, immobility, waxy flexibility, mutism, negativism, echolalia, or withdrawal?

Which condition is characterized by bizarre or frenzied movements, immobility, waxy flexibility, mutism, negativism, echolalia, or withdrawal?

• A. Delirium
• B. Catatonia
• C. Schizophrenia
• D. Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome

Answer: (B)

Catatonia is a psychomotor syndrome characterized by dramatic changes in movement and responsiveness. It can present as immobility or stupor with mutism and negativism, or as extreme, sometimes frenetic and bizarre movements. A hallmark feature is waxy flexibility, where the person maintains a posture placed by another. Echolalia and echopraxia—repeating words or movements—can also appear, along with withdrawal from interaction. This cluster of signs points to catatonia, which can occur in schizophrenia spectrum conditions as well as mood disorders and other medical issues. It’s distinct from delirium, which mainly involves fluctuating level of consciousness and attention, and from neuroleptic malignant syndrome, which brings fever, autonomic instability, and rigid hypertonicity. Recognizing this pattern helps clinicians target catatonia with appropriate treatments, such as benzodiazepines or electroconvulsive therapy.

Catatonia is a psychomotor syndrome characterized by dramatic changes in movement and responsiveness. It can present as immobility or stupor with mutism and negativism, or as extreme, sometimes frenetic and bizarre movements. A hallmark feature is waxy flexibility, where the person maintains a posture placed by another. Echolalia and echopraxia—repeating words or movements—can also appear, along with withdrawal from interaction. This cluster of signs points to catatonia, which can occur in schizophrenia spectrum conditions as well as mood disorders and other medical issues. It’s distinct from delirium, which mainly involves fluctuating level of consciousness and attention, and from neuroleptic malignant syndrome, which brings fever, autonomic instability, and rigid hypertonicity. Recognizing this pattern helps clinicians target catatonia with appropriate treatments, such as benzodiazepines or electroconvulsive therapy.