A Case of Prolonged Catatonia Caused by Sj ̈ogren’s Syndrome

Sj ̈ogren’s syndrome (SS) is a chronic autoimmune disorder, often associated with some neuropsychiatric symptoms as well assystemic lupus erythematosus. Although catatonia is frequently reported in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus, it hasbeen rarely reported in patients with SS. Herein, we present a case of SS with catatonia effectively and safely treated with modifiedelectroconvulsive therapy (ECT). A 58-year-old woman showed prolonged catatonia and depressive mood along with patho-logically dried eye and mouth. Based on physical findings and blood tests, she was diagnosed with SS. Because of the presence ofpressure sores, we were unable to perform lumbar puncture for the diagnosis of abacterial encephalitis. Alternatively, single-photon emission computed tomography of her brain revealed multifocal hypoperfused areas in the parietotemporal region.Consequently, we performed ECT for the treatment of catatonia comorbid with SS. Following 20 sessions of ECT, the catatoniawas improved without obvious adverse effects. One week after the last ECT, elevated levels of interleukin-6 were identified in thecerebral fluid. After receiving steroid pulse therapy, she has not experienced catatonia for more than 5 years. SS can causecatatonia, and ECT is a safe and effective option for the treatment of catatonia with SS.