Catatonic episode after kidney transplantation

Gen Hosp Psychiatry. 2014 May-Jun;36(3):360.e3-5. doi: 10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2014.01.001. Epub 2014 Jan 13.

Abstract

There is a growing body of case reports of catatonic symptoms after organ transplantations. A considerable number of these cases might be attributed to neurotoxicity induced by immunosuppressive medications. However, the etiology of other cases remains unclear. We present the case of a 21-year-old woman who developed catatonia after kidney transplantation from a deceased donor. In this case, nontoxic tacrolimus levels were found, and other causal factors including infections, uremia or transplant rejection were excluded. Electroconvulsive therapy followed by olanzapine proved to be effective treatment.

Keywords: Catatonia; Electroconvulsive therapy; Kidney transplantation; Olanzapine.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Antipsychotic Agents / administration & dosage
  • Antipsychotic Agents / pharmacology
  • Benzodiazepines / administration & dosage
  • Benzodiazepines / pharmacology
  • Catatonia / etiology*
  • Catatonia / therapy
  • Electroconvulsive Therapy / methods
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Kidney Transplantation / adverse effects*
  • Olanzapine
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Antipsychotic Agents
  • Benzodiazepines
  • Olanzapine