The characteristics of prodromal symptoms in the development of the psychotic disorder

Abstract

Objectives

In most cases, prodromal changes in behavior, lasting from several days to several years, often precede psychotic disorders and indicate the beginning of psychosis. Prodromal symptoms are nonspecific, making an accurate detection difficult. It is typical that the earlier stadium of the appearance of the disorder, the more insidious the prodromal stage is.

Method

Retrospectively, authors analyzed periods of nonspecific symptoms in ten patients, aged 16 to 20 years, who developed a clinical picture of psychosis.

Results

The most frequent prodromal symptoms in our research were anxiety, irritability and sleep disorder, which were followed by the attention deficit disorder, a sense of confusion and difficulty in dealing with the environment, accompanied by social withdrawal.

Conclusion

Authors pay attention to the cognition and early detection of prodromal symptoms, which gives the opportunity for earlier therapeutic interventions in the course of the disorder and the possibility for a better outcome and prognosis of the disorder.