Schizophreniform disorder: causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
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Schizophreniform disorder is characterized by symptoms similar to schizophrenia, but lasting more than 1 month but less than 6 months.
In clinical evaluation, there is reason to suspect the presence of schizophrenia. It is necessary to exclude psychoses, secondary to substance abuse or somatic disease. The difference between schizophreniform disorder and schizophrenia in a patient without previous psychotic symptoms is based on the duration of the symptoms; if the duration exceeds 6 months, the patient no longer meets the diagnostic criteria of schizophreniform disorder. Preservation of symptoms or disability over 6 months indicates schizophrenia, but acute psychosis can also develop into a mood disorder with psychotic traits, such as bipolar or schizoaffective disorder. To establish the diagnosis and appropriate treatment, it is often necessary to have long-term follow-up.
Antipsychotic therapy and supportive psychosocial care are indicated. After the disappearance of symptoms, drug therapy lasts 12 months, and then is gradually canceled under close supervision of the doctor to avoid the resumption of psychotic symptoms.
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