Neurological abnormalities in schizophrenic patients: A prospective follow-up study 5 years after first admission

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the temporal stability of neurological abnormalities in first-episode schizophrenic patients, and to clarify the relationships between such abnormalities and psychopathology. Method: A total of 18 schizophrenic patients, 11 non-schizophrenic patients and 10 healthy volunteers were examined neurologically at first admission and 5 years later. Results: A significant increase in the number of neurological abnormalities was seen in schizophrenic patients with genetic predisposition and in patients with a non-remitting course of disease. Birth complications had an impact on the occurrence of neurological abnormalities at first admission. Conclusion: The association between a deteriorating course of disease and neurological impairment supports the theory that any possible impairment of the brain in schizophrenia is aggravated during the first 5 years of disease.