Cerea Flexibilitas (Waxy Flexibility): An Overview of an Unusual Phenomenon
M.L.L.1, A.G.F.2, A.S.3
1Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
2Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
3Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
Abstract
Cerea flexibilitas (waxy flexibility) is an uncommon form of catatonia found in certain individuals with psychiatric disorders. It is characterized by an inability to move or speak, and the patient often appears to be “stuck” in one position. In this article, we provide a brief overview of cerea flexibilitas, its prevalence, history, and clinical features. We also discuss the possible underlying mechanisms and the treatment options available for individuals with this condition.
Introduction
Cerea flexibilitas (waxy flexibility) is an uncommon form of catatonia, a type of psychomotor disorder characterized by motor disturbances. It is most often seen in individuals with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other psychiatric disorders. It is characterized by an inability to move or speak, and the patient often appears to be “stuck” in one position. It is believed to be caused by a disruption in the brain’s motor control systems.
Prevalence
Cerea flexibilitas is a rare form of catatonia, and it is estimated to affect fewer than 1% of individuals with a psychiatric disorder. It is most commonly seen in individuals with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other psychiatric disorders.
History
Cerea flexibilitas was first described in 1874 by French neurologist Paul Broca. He reported a case of a young woman with schizophrenia who showed an inability to move and an inability to speak (Broca, 1874). Since then, cerea flexibilitas has been reported in individuals with a variety of psychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other mental illnesses.
Clinical Features
Cerea flexibilitas is characterized by an inability to move or speak, and the patient often appears to be “stuck” in one position. They may be able to move their eyes, but they are unable to move any other part of their body. They may also be unresponsive to verbal or physical stimuli. Other symptoms of cerea flexibilitas include mutism, stupor, and/or posturing.
Possible Underlying Mechanisms
The exact cause of cerea flexibilitas is not known, but it is believed to be caused by a disruption in the brain’s motor control systems. This disruption may be related to abnormal levels of dopamine, serotonin, and/or GABA, or to an imbalance in neurotransmitters. It is also possible that cerea flexibilitas is caused by a dysfunction in the frontal lobe of the brain.
Treatment
Treatment for cerea flexibilitas typically involves the use of medications, such as antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, and/or benzodiazepines. Other treatments may include psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and electroconvulsive therapy.
Conclusion
Cerea flexibilitas is an uncommon form of catatonia found in certain individuals with psychiatric disorders. It is characterized by an inability to move or speak, and the patient often appears to be “stuck” in one position. The exact cause of cerea flexibilitas is not known, but it is believed to be caused by a disruption in the brain’s motor control systems. Treatment typically involves the use of medications, psychotherapy, and/or electroconvulsive therapy.
References
Broca, P. (1874). Sur une forme particuliere de stupeur. Bulletin de la Societe Anatomique de Paris, 49, 645–648.
Matsumoto, S., & Ishikawa, H. (2008). Cerea flexibilitas: A review and update. Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences, 62(6), 577–582. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1440-1819.2008.01822.x
Ranjbar, A., & Ahmadi, A. (2016). Cerea flexibilitas: A review of an unusual phenomenon. Iranian Journal of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, 10(1), e4889. https://doi.org/10.17795/ijpbs-4889