THE EFFECT OF ECT ON THE SLEEP-DREAM CYCLE IN A PSYCHOTIC DEPRESSION

Abstract

The effect of ECT [electroconvulsive therapy] on the sleep-dream cycle was studied intensively on a longitudinal basis in a patient with a severe psychotic depression. Various parameters of sleep and psychological measures were analyzed before beginning ECT, weekly during the course of ECT, as well as after complete clinical remission and the patient''s return to work. Certain distinctive alterations of the stages of sleep, including dreaming and the other parameters, were observed during the time-study. Deviant sleep-dream concomitants which were present before ECT reverted to normal following treatment. Reflections on the disturbed sleep-dream cycle and an inference on the action of ECT in this case were made.