The Shocking Time It Takes to Initiate ECT: A Clinically and Legally Complicated Case of Catatonia

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To the Editor: Malignant catatonia is a life-threatening form of catatonia characterized by hyperthermia and autonomic dysfunction along with the motor and behavioral symptoms associated with catatonia. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is considered by some to be an iatrogenic form of malignant catatonia occurring secondary to neuroleptic use. NMS occurs in 0.02% to 3% of patients treated with neuroleptics and is typically a self-limited condition, resolving within 7-14 days of stopping the offending drug.