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Childhood-onset schizophrenia: a follow-up study
J Rosenbaum Asarnow1, M C Tompson
1UCLA Neuropsychiatric Institute, Los Angeles, CA 90024-1759, USA.
European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
|November 5, 1999
Summary
Childhood-onset schizophrenia (SZ) spectrum disorders show continuity into adolescence. Outcomes vary, with current treatments suggesting childhood-onset SZ may not lead to a more severe adult disorder.
Area of Science:
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
- Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders
Background:
- Childhood-onset schizophrenia spectrum disorders are rare but have significant long-term implications.
- Understanding the longitudinal course of these disorders is crucial for effective intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the continuity of schizophrenia (SZ) spectrum disorders from childhood to adolescence.
- To assess the long-term functional outcomes in children diagnosed with SZ spectrum disorders.
Main Methods:
- Longitudinal follow-up study of 18 children initially diagnosed with schizophrenia spectrum disorders.
- Assessment of diagnostic status and functional levels 1 to 7 years post-intake.
Main Results:
- High rates of SZ spectrum disorders (78-89%) and continuing SZ (67-78%) were observed across the first three follow-up years.
- Schizoaffective disorder affected 11-13% of the sample.
- Functional outcomes varied, with 45% showing deterioration/minimal improvement and 55% showing moderate/good improvement.
Conclusions:
- Childhood-onset schizophrenia spectrum disorders demonstrate significant continuity into adolescence.
- The variability in outcomes is comparable to adult SZ, indicating current treatments may mitigate severity.
- Childhood-onset does not inherently predict a more severe long-term course with adequate treatment.