Organic Causes of Catatonia in Youth

Most Common Organic Etiologies

• Viral encephalitis and meningitis are associated with catatonia in children and adolescents, according to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry 1
• HIV-related syndromes are a common organic cause of catatonia in youth, as reported by the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry 1
• Seizure disorders, including epilepsy, are linked to catatonia in children and adolescents, as noted by the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry 1
• CNS lesions, such as brain tumors and congenital malformations, can cause catatonia in youth, according to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry 1
• Substances of abuse, including amphetamines and cocaine, can induce catatonia in children and adolescents, as reported by the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry 1
• Medications, such as stimulants and corticosteroids, can cause catatonia in youth, according to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry 1
• Heavy metal toxicity is a potential organic cause of catatonia in children and adolescents, as noted by the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry 1
• Wilson's disease, a genetic disorder, is associated with catatonia in youth, as reported by the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry 1
• Chorea, including Huntington's disease, is linked to catatonia in children and adolescents, according to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry 1
• Lipid storage disorders, such as Gaucher's disease, can cause catatonia in youth, as noted by the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry 1
• Velocardiofacial syndrome, a genetic disorder, is associated with catatonia in children and adolescents, as reported by the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry 1
• Various endocrinopathies, such as thyroid disorders, can cause catatonia in youth, according to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry 1