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Updated: Jun 6, 2026
09:07
Electroconvulsive Seizures in Rats and Fractionation of Their Hippocampi to Examine Seizure-induced Changes in Postsynaptic Density Proteins
Published on: August 15, 2017
When is electroconvulsive therapy appropriate for children and adolescents?
Lee E Wachtel1, Dirk M Dhossche, Charles H Kellner
1Kennedy Krieger Institute, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, 707 North Broadway St., Baltimore, MD 21209, USA. wachtel@kennedykrieger.org
Medical Hypotheses
|December 7, 2010
Summary
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is safe and effective for children and adolescents with severe mental health conditions refractory to medication. Despite evidence, barriers to pediatric ECT access persist, necessitating removal of impediments.
Area of Science:
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
- Neurology
- Psychopharmacology
Background:
- Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) indications in pediatric populations mirror adult guidelines, addressing severe affective, psychotic, and catatonic disorders.
- ECT is also considered for specific pediatric neurological conditions, expanding its therapeutic scope.
- Existing literature supports the safety and efficacy of ECT across diverse pediatric psychopathology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the established indications and demonstrated safety/efficacy of ECT in pediatric patients.
- To highlight the successful application of ECT in youth with autism and neurodevelopmental disorders experiencing catatonic deterioration.
- To address the persistent stigma and resistance hindering access to pediatric ECT.
Main Methods:
- Review of published reports and clinical data on ECT use in children and adolescents.
- Analysis of indications, safety profiles, and treatment outcomes.
- Examination of barriers to accessing pediatric ECT.
Main Results:
- ECT is indicated for severe, treatment-refractory pediatric mental health conditions causing functional impairment.
- Evidence confirms ECT's safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients with various psychiatric diagnoses.
- Successful ECT use is documented in youth with autism and neurodevelopmental disabilities exhibiting catatonia.
Conclusions:
- Pediatric ECT is appropriate for specific clinical indications, supported by robust evidence.
- Stigma and resistance create significant barriers to accessing this vital treatment for youth.
- Urgent removal of impediments is recommended to improve access to pediatric ECT.
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