[Catatonic dilemma in a schizoaffective patient with combined lithium-risperidone administration].

OBJECTIVE

The case of a schizoaffective patient suffering from a malignant catatonic syndrome following combined lithium-risperidone therapy is explored.

METHOD: A case report and relevant deliberations regarding pathophysiology of the catatonic dilemma are discussed.

CONCLUSIONS

There are two critical transitions in the development of a malignant catatonic syndrome. Dopaminergic system and psychopharmacological factors are supposed to play a key role. However, other neurotransmitter systems and the individual predisposition must be considered.