title: [Mechanisms of catatonia].
abstract: Catatonia is being increasingly viewed as a unique syndrome consisting of specific motor signs that respond characteristically and uniformly to benzodiazepines and electroconvulsive therapy. This interpretation is also reflected in changes in the classification of catatonia in DSM-5. An all-embracing pathogenesis of catatonia remains elusive.
  
  
  
  To review the mechanisms of catatonia.
  
  
  
  We reviewed the literature.
  
  
  
  Certain aspects of catatonia can be explained by a number of different mechanisms. We present a new, more comprehensive model involving the vagal nerve.
  
  
  
  Further research into the underlying mechanisms of catatonia is needed in order to to find new therapies.
authors: D M
authors: DM
authors: Dhossche
authors: P
authors: P
authors: Sienaert
authors: F M M A
authors: FM
authors: van der Heijden
mesh_terms: D001569:Benzodiazepines / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002389:Catatonia / Q000209:etiology* / Q000473:pathology* / Q000628:therapy; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D004565:Electroconvulsive Therapy; D006801:Humans; D013577:Syndrome
chemical_list: D001569:Benzodiazepines