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Hemodialysis and schizophrenia. A negative report
The Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease
|April 1, 1978
Summary
Hemodialysis did not improve schizophrenia symptoms in two patients with chronic renal failure. Further controlled studies are needed before considering hemodialysis for schizophrenia treatment in patients with normal kidney function.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Psychiatry
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Previous preliminary studies suggested hemodialysis might be effective for treating chronic schizophrenia.
- This study investigates the efficacy of hemodialysis in patients with comorbid schizophrenia and chronic renal failure.
Observation:
- Two patients with chronic schizophrenia and end-stage renal disease underwent intensive, long-term hemodialysis.
- No significant changes in schizophrenic symptomatology were observed during or after the hemodialysis treatment.
Findings:
- Hemodialysis treatment did not alter the course of schizophrenic symptoms in the observed patients.
- These negative findings contradict earlier uncontrolled reports on hemodialysis for schizophrenia.
Implications:
- The use of hemodialysis for schizophrenia treatment requires further investigation through controlled studies.
- Research should explore potential mechanisms like false neurotransmitters or serum factors before exposing patients with normal renal function to hemodialysis risks.