Electroconvulsive therapy for psychotic depression in a patient with a deep brain stimulator: A Case Report

Abstract

This case-report describes a patient with Parkinson's Disease (PaD) with an implanted deep brain stimulator, who received electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) for the treatment of a major depressive episode with melancholic features. There was an adequate response to treatment and a lack of significant adverse effects. ECT has shown itself to be a safe and effective treatment in these circumstances if the necessary safety precautions are taken. The effect of ECT on psychomotor features in melancholic depression are outlined and discussed, where a change in psychomotor function could be predictive for treatment outcome. Further research is warranted.