Schizophreniform

Etiology

Schizophreniform is typically used as a preliminary diagnosis for schizophrenia. Due to the complexities of schizophrenia, an initial diagnosis is very often tentative and schizophreniform is therefore used.

Symptoms

See Schizophrenia.

Treatment

Medication is the most important part of treatment as it can reduce and sometimes eliminate the psychotic symptoms. Case management is often needed to assist with daily living skills, financial matters, and housing, and therapy can help the individual learn better coping skills and improve social and occupational skills.

Prognosis

If the symptoms are not significantly reduced in the first six months after diagnosis, a change of diagnosis to schizophrenia is warranted. By definition, schizophreniform can not be diagnosed for a period longer longer than six months.