The presentation of early-onset psychotic disorders

This study aims to describe the clinical course of psychotic disorders, including the premorbid history, symptoms and level of functioning in a group of children and adolescents treated by paediatric mental health services, mainly as inpatients.

A sample of 45 children and adolescents with a psychotic disorder (mean age 13.2 years) was assessed using questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, parent interviews and file audit. The symptoms of those with a schizophrenia spectrum disorder (SSD) were compared to those with a mood disorder (MD).

This population showed a high level of premorbid impairment, including previous treatment for other psychiatric disorders. As well as hallucinations and delusions, high levels of self-harm, aggression, anxiety and depression were reported. The SSD and MD groups differed mainly in their levels of premorbid functioning.

While it is well known that childhood-onset schizophrenia is a severe disorder with a poor outcome, this study found that young people diagnosed with other psychotic disorders also have significant impairment and are likely to require high levels of care to maximize their functional recovery.