During the 20th century, catatonia all but dropped off the agenda of mainstream psychiatric research. However, several dedicated research groups, represented in this volume, continued to report original data highlighting catatonia as a relevant and ideal subject for clinical study. This book, which exemplifies the unparalleled breadth of the knowledge gained, will benefit clinicians managing catatonic phenomena as well as researchers interested in pursuing further investigations. This book covers in great detail the psychopathology and neurobiology of catatonia, focusing on the history, epidemiology, etiology, diagnosis and treatment of the disorder. This comprehensive volume Offers a wide representation of the historical and worldwide literature on the many variants of catatonia in a single, well-organized text. Includes work presented by the original investigators, many of whom work outside the United States and have had their previous studies published only in non-English journals. Covers alternative opinions and perspectives on catatonia, contributing novel and illuminating perspectives on the syndrome. Addresses areas of controversy -- including disagreements over treatment and the nosologic status of catatonia -- head-on, in a balanced, evidence-based presentation. Balances practical clinical material with the underlying neurobiology, presenting clinical aspects in the context of history, epidemiology, cross-cultural perspectives, and neurobiological findings and highlighting the richness and intellectual attraction of the study of the disorder. Catatonia is unique in offering a diverse, international group of contributors and such a comprehensive, up-to-date review of the clinical and scientific literature, spanning the breadth of contemporary understanding about the nature, meaning, and importance of the syndrome.
