Korean J Biol Psychiatry.  2023 Oct;30(2):31-43. 10.22857/kjbp.2023.30.2.001.

Electroconvulsive Therapy for Treatment-Refractory Behaviors Problems in Neurodevelopmental Disorders

• Seo HJ
• Lee NY
• Lee KY
• Bahn GH
• Bhang SY
• Kim HC
• Kim YS
• Chung IW

• KMID: 2547721
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.22857/kjbp.2023.30.2.001

Abstract

Individuals with developmental disorders exhibit a broad spectrum of aggressive behaviors, including self-directed actions and those directed toward others. These behaviors can lead to physical harm, disruptions in daily life, caregiver stress, and an increased risk for abuse and institutionalization. An integrated and multidisciplinary approach, including psychosocial approaches and pharmacotherapy, has been attempted to treat self-injurious and aggressive behaviors, but has shown limited effectiveness in reducing those behaviors. Recently, the use of electroconvulsive therapy has increased as an alternative treatment for pediatric and adolescent patients with treatment-resistant behavior problems in developmental disorders. This review elucidates the indications and clinical effectiveness of electroconvulsive therapy in the management of self-injurious behavior and catatonia in patients with developmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorders and intellectual disabilities.

Keyword

Neurodevelopmental disorder; Self-injurious behavior; Intellectual disabilities; Autism spectrum disorder; Catatonia; Electroconvulsive therapy