The DSM-III concept of organic brain syndrome

The shortcomings of the DSM-II classification of organic brain syndrome are described, including the limitation of the concept to the global brain disorders; the idiosyncratic use of the terms acute and chronic; and the unsatisfactory categories psychotic and nonpsychotic. Organic brain syndrome is defined according to DSM-III and the 10 separate brain syndrome categories are outlined. The diagnostic criteria for each category are listed and the general principles underlying the criteria are described. Finally, the goals of the authors' of DSM-III to enhance diagnostic reliability and validity are discussed and the impact of the new nomenclature is assessed.