An Unusual Case of Multifactorial Catatonia Following Taxane‐Based Chemotherapy Regimen

Catatonia is a neuropsychiatric syndrome characterised by motor and behavioural disturbances. While commonly associated with psychiatric conditions, a substantial proportion of cases have medical or drug‐induced aetiologies. Chemotherapy can cause catatonia, and taxane‐based chemotherapy is known to cause central neurotoxicity; however, taxane‐related catatonia has not been reported before. We describe a 75‐year‐old woman with a schizophrenia in remission, who developed catatonia after docetaxel administration for breast cancer. Her catatonia fulfilled DSM‐5‐TR criteria and had an initial Bush–Francis catatonia rating scale (BFCRS) score of 23. A lorazepam challenge was positive, and treatment with oral lorazepam resulted in rapid resolution. Mild recurrence during follow‐up was successfully managed with lorazepam titration. We discuss the possible link between taxanes, taxane‐induced central neurotoxicity (TICN) and catatonia, with neuroscientific, clinical and radiological considerations. This case highlights the potential contribution of taxane chemotherapy to catatonia in a medically complex patient, and underscores the importance of early recognition and prompt treatment of catatonia.