[The symptomology of akathisia]

The phenomenon of akathisia is characterised by a subjective feeling of inner agitation accompanied by general motoric restlessness, which particularly affects the legs. It is mainly the inner agitation from which the patients suffer, but which they often cannot describe in any detail. The psychopathology of akathisia is presented in a case report, the emphasis being on a detailed description of inner agitation. Furthermore, motor, affective and cognitive symptoms of akathisia are pointed out. Finally, differential diagnosis of akathisia and standardised scales for assessment are discussed.