Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia remains an enigma to many clinicians, despite recent progress in the scientific understanding of its causes, symptoms and potential treatments. Whilst the DSM-IV and ICD-10 classification systems have provided a reasonably reliable set of diagnostic criteria for 'schizophrenia', the validity of the construct remains elusive, and clinicians and researchers need to be wary about accepting these as definitive. Indeed schizophrenia remains a clinical diagnosis, based on certain signs and symptoms, and none of these is pathognomonic; there is also no laboratory or radiological test for the condition. Part of the Oxford Psychiatry Library, this pocketbook provides well-balanced answers to common questions about schizophrenia. Part 1 covers classification, clinical features, epidemiology, aetiological factors, brain abnormalities, and neurochemistry. Part 2 focuses on management and covers service models, and biological, psychological and social aspects of treatment. Part 3 includes patient/carer information on medications used in psychiatry, tips about dealing with side effects and enhancing adherence, and information about looking after physical health. This pocketbook will serve as a concise useful guide for psychiatrists, trainees, specialist nurses and interested general practitioners.