A computed tomographic prolective trohoc study of chronic schizophrenics

Area of Science:

• Neuroimaging
• Psychiatry
• Radiology

Background:

• Enlargement of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) spaces, including ventricles and sulci, has been hypothesized in schizophrenia.
• Previous studies have yielded conflicting results regarding the extent and significance of these changes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate potential enlargement of CSF-filled intracranial spaces in chronic schizophrenic patients.
• To determine if ventricular size or cerebral sulci enlargement correlates with psychopathological condition.

Main Methods:

• Cranial computed tomograms (CT) were analyzed in 68 chronic schizophrenic patients and a matched control group.
• Measurements included maximal width of the third ventricle, distance between anterior horns, and number of enlarged cerebral sulci.
• Psychopathological condition was assessed via semistandardized dialogue.

Main Results:

• No significant differences were found in the size of CSF spaces between schizophrenic patients and controls.
• No correlation was observed between psychopathological status and ventricular size or enlarged cerebral sulci.

Conclusions:

• The study did not find evidence supporting enlarged CSF spaces in chronic schizophrenia.
• Ventricular size and sulci enlargement do not appear to correlate with the psychopathological condition in this cohort.