Schizophreniform Disorder
Article Sections
Introduction
Schizophreniform disorder is a time-limited psychotic disorder characterized by ≥2 psychotic symptoms (delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech, grossly disorganized or catatonic behavior, negative symptoms) that last ≥1 month and <6 months. If symptoms persist beyond 6 months, the diagnosis is changed to schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder.
Epidemiology and risk factors
The lifetime prevalence rate of schizophreniform disorder is estimated to be 0.1%. Prevalence rates are similar in men and women, and symptom onset is typically between late adolescence and early adulthood.
Factors that may contribute to the risk for schizophreniform disorder include genetic (first-degree relative with schizophrenia or psychotic mood disorder) and environmental (eg, low birth weight, adverse childhood event, trauma).
Pathogenesis
The pathogenesis of schizophreniform disorder is unclear, although it may be related to glutamatergic signaling disruptions, as well as abnormalities of the prefrontal cortex, parietal cortex, and hippocampus.
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