Pulmonary embolism as a complication of major depressive disorder with catatonic features: a case report

Catatonia in the setting of a mood disorder, an organic process, or a psychotic disorder presents significant risk to the patient's well-being, as well as an additional barrier to treating the underlying disorder. The signs and symptoms of catatonia interfere severely with essential activities of daily living; they also at times compromise the ability of caregivers to evaluate and treat the patient's primary disorder driving the catatonia. This interference often leads to medical emergencies, such as marked dehydration and pressure ulcers. Another life-threatening complication of the immobility commonly seen in catatonic patients is the development of deep vein thromboses (DVT) and pulmonary emboli. As with all patients, it is critical to provide preventative measures where possible to minimize risk of complications. Routine anticoagulation perhaps deserves more consideration in the case of catatonia, such as the one presented in this case report.