Psychotic disorders in children and adolescents

Abstract

Psychotic disorders in children and adolescents include early-onset schizophrenia and childhood onset schizophrenia (COS). This discussion begins with a historical reflection and then proceeds to such concepts as definitions, epidemiology, etiology, pathogenesis, differential diagnosis, and principles of management. The differential diagnosis includes such disorders as substance use disorders (SUD) and drug intoxications, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), autism spectrum disorders (ADS), schizoaffective disorder, mood disorder, and various medical conditions. It is important for clinicians to understand that delusional thinking and hallucinations can be seen in healthy nonpsychotic children and usually diminishes after age 6. Concepts for the evaluation of psychosis in children and adolescents are reviewed including history, physical examination, laboratory studies and others. Management concepts are presented that include principles of pharmacology for psychotic disorders.