Classification and Diagnosis of Schizophrenia or Other Primary Psychotic Disorders: Changes from ICD-10 to ICD-11 and...

From January 2022, the WHO member countries shall start implementing the mortality and morbidity statistics (MMS) version of the eleventh revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11). Regarding mental, behavioural or neurodevelopmental disorders, there are substantial changes from ICD-10 to ICD-11. The subchapter for schizophrenia or other primary psychotic disorders has changed due to a revised structure, new diagnostic criteria, and the introduction of dimensional elements (i.e., course and symptom qualifiers). The aim of this manuscript is twofold. First, we review changes from ICD-10 to ICD-11 in the classification and diagnosis of schizophrenia or other primary psychotic disorders, including findings from recent field studies. Second, we provide an overview of approaches to the implementation of ICD-11 in clinical practice. Critical elements for transition from ICD-10 to ICD-11 include the use of digital tools, education and training, stakeholder involvement, national adaptations, and continuous evaluation.