Markers of neurodevelopmental impairments in early-onset psychosis

Maria Giuseppina Petruzzelli1, Lucia Margari1, Francesco Craig1

  • 1Child and Adolescence Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University "Aldo Moro" of Bari, Foggia, Italy.

Insights

Children with early-onset psychosis show global neurodevelopmental impairments, including social and learning difficulties, and lower IQ. These issues manifest early, suggesting a broader developmental impact beyond just language or motor skills.

Area of Science:

  • Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
  • Neurodevelopmental Disorders
  • Psychosis Research

Background:

  • Early-onset schizophrenia spectrum psychosis is associated with neurodevelopmental impairments.
  • Understanding these impairments is crucial for early intervention and treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the link between clinical and neurobiological markers of neurodevelopmental impairments and early-onset schizophrenia spectrum psychosis.

Main Methods:

  • Compared 36 patients with early-onset psychosis to 36 migraine patients.
  • Assessed neurodevelopmental milestones, intellectual ability, and neurological soft signs.

Main Results:

  • Early-onset psychosis group showed higher rates of impaired social development, learning difficulties, and enuresis.
  • The psychosis group had lower IQ scores and subtle motor impairments compared to controls.

Conclusions:

  • Neurodevelopment in early-onset psychosis is marked by global functional and adaptive skill impairments from early childhood.
  • Findings suggest a pervasive developmental impact rather than isolated delays.
  • Further research with larger samples is recommended.
Abstract

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