Schizophrenia: A systemic disorder

Brian Kirkpatrick, Brian J Miller, Clemente García-Rizo, Emilio Fernandez-Egea

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

37 Scopus citations

Abstract

The concept of schizophrenia that is most widely taught is that it is a disorder in which psychotic symptoms are the main problem, and a dysregulation of dopamine signaling is the main feature of pathophysiology. However, this concept limits clinical assessment, the treatments offered to patients, research, and the development of therapeutics. A more appropriate conceptual model is that: 1) schizophrenia is not a psychotic disorder, but a disorder of essentially every brain function in which psychosis is present; 2) it is not a brain disease, but a disorder with impairments throughout the body; 3) for many patients, neuropsychiatric problems other than psychosis contribute more to impairment in function and quality of life than does psychosis; and, 4) some conditions that are considered to be comorbid are integral parts of the illness. In conclusion, students, patients, and family members should be taught this model, along with its implications for assessment, research, and therapeutics.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)73-79
Number of pages7
JournalClinical Schizophrenia and Related Psychoses
Volume8
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 2014

Keywords

  • Dopamine
  • Endophenotype
  • Neurodevelopment
  • Psychosis
  • Schizophrenia

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Psychiatry and Mental health

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