Successful use of continuation electroconvulsive therapy in a case of late-onset Leonhard's confusion psychosis

Abstract

A 56-year-old married woman with late-onset Leonhard's confusion psychosis was treated successfully with acute electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) after failing to respond to antidepressants, neuroleptics, and benzodiazepines. Symptoms relapsed within 1 year despite the combined use of olanzapine and paroxetine. The patient responded to a second course of acute ECT, but a second relapse occurred within 3 months despite her use of olanzapine and paroxetine. The symptoms resolved with continuation ECT and lithium combined with paroxetine after response to a third course of acute ECT. To date, relapse has been prevented for 2 years. Continuation ECT and lithium combined with paroxetine after response to acute ECT may be effective in maintaining remission of Leonhard's confusion psychosis.