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Electro convulsive therapy in a pre-pubertal child with severe depression
P S Russell1, P Tharyan, K Arun Kumar
1Department of Psychiatry, Christian Medical College, Vellore - 632 002, India. russell@cmcvellore.ac.in
Journal of Postgraduate Medicine
|February 7, 2003
Summary
Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) is a life-saving treatment for severe childhood depression, even in pre-pubertal children. This case report highlights its safety and efficacy despite treatment challenges.
Area of Science:
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
- Neurology
- Medical Ethics
Background:
- Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) is underutilized in pre-pubertal children despite comparable efficacy and side effect profiles to adults and adolescents.
- A significant reluctance exists among clinicians to administer ECT to younger populations due to ethical and safety concerns.
Observation:
- A case of a pre-pubertal child experiencing severe depression with catatonic features is presented.
- The child underwent a prolonged course of ECT, experiencing extended seizure durations and a delayed treatment response.
Findings:
- The protracted ECT course was ultimately life-saving for the child.
- This case demonstrates the potential safety and efficacy of ECT in pediatric patients with severe depressive episodes.
Implications:
- This case challenges the pervasive reluctance to use ECT in children and adolescents.
- Highlights the need for further research and discussion regarding ECT's role in pediatric mental health.
- Suggests ECT as a viable, life-saving option for severe, treatment-resistant childhood depression.