Adaptive behaviour after schizophrenia in people with Down's syndrome

Seven individuals with Down's syndrome and a past history of schizophrenia were matched for age, sex and residence to adults with Down's syndrome but no past psychiatric history. The AAMD Adaptive Behaviour Scale was completed for all individuals in both groups, at a mean follow-up period of 6.4 years after the schizophrenic episode. The skill level of the subject group was found to be the same as for the control group, which rejects the notion of a 'defect state' occurring post-schizophrenia in Down's syndrome. The importance of accurate diagnosis and treatment for this group is stressed.