Schizophrenia- Signs, Symptoms, Diagnostic Criteria

Question 1

DSM-V diagnostic criteria for schizophrenia

Answer 1

Two or more of the following, each present for a significant portion of time during a 1-month period or less if successfully treated. At least one of these must be:

Delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech (frequent derailment or incoherence), grossly disorganized or catatonic behavior, negative symptoms (diminished emotional expression or abolition)

Level of functioning in major areas (work, home, etc.) is markedly below the level achieved prior to onset

Question 2

Patient evaluation for schizophrenia

Answer 2

Complete patient history
Mental status exam
Rule out other conditions and co-occurring disorders to establish a correct diagnosis

Question 3

Drugs that can induce schizophrenia

Answer 3

Corticosteroids, stimulants, weed, DA-augmenting agents, hallucinogens

Question 4

Diseases that can induce schizophrenia

Answer 4

HIV/AIDS, epilepsy, CVA/TBI, infections, Huntington’s Disease

Question 5

Positive symptoms of schizophrenia

Answer 5

Hallucinations, delusions, ideas of influence, disorganized speech and disconnected thoughts

Question 6

Negative symptoms of schizophrenia

Answer 6

Flat affect, alogia, anhedonia, avolition

Question 7

Cognitive symptoms of schizophrenia

Answer 7

Impaired attention, working memory, and executive function