Prospective study of course of illness in schizophrenia: Part III. Treatment and outcome

In a prospective study of 86 schizophrenic patients (ICD 9), outcome data were obtained for 86 percent 1 year after clinic discharge. The Strauss-Carpenter outcome scale (frequency of social contacts, employment duration, symptomatology, and duration of rehospitalization) served as the outcome criterion. The Strauss-Carpenter prognostic scale items served as the potential predictors of the course. The followup treatment, which took place during the catamnestic period, was compared with that of other psychiatric diagnostic groups with respect to its continuity and efficiency. The following findings emerged: When compared to patients with neuroses and alcohol dependency, the followup treatment of schizophrenic patients in a large city seems to be better ensured. This is attributed to a clearer concept of treatment for schizophrenic patients. The comparatively favorable outcome of this group of patients seems to be related to this. For the other groups, especially for neurotic disorders, effective treatment concepts have still to be developed and evaluated. Schizophrenic patients receiving continuous neuroleptic medication are rehospitalized significantly less often (28 percent) than those not in continuous treatment (55 percent). This treatment difference is most obvious for patients with multiple admissions. Differences dependent on treatment are not found in other outcome dimensions. However, patients with good heterosexual adjustment profit the most from continuous treatment with neuroleptics in reference to freedom from symptoms. For a more chronic subgroup with a poorer initial level of work adjustment, the functional level deteriorates over the course of illness. Relapse and inpatient readmission are related to retarded recompensation, particularly for chronic patients. This underlines the need for consistent neuroleptic treatment.