Schizophrenia Pathogenesis

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Schizophrenia is a debilitating and chronic mental illness, involving both psychotic and negative symptoms, with an unknown cause. Genetics may play a significant role in pathogenesis. Twin studies have provided data relating to heritability rates with a 48% chance of development for monozygotic twins, and a 17% chance for dizygotic twins. Neurodevelopmental theories of schizophrenia pathogenesis include complications during the prenatal period of development manifesting normally in the pubescent brain, such as teratogenic effects from sources of nicotine, alcohol, maternal-stress, and poor maternal-nutrition. Neurobiological theories hypothesize that the dysregulation of neurotransmitter systems, primarily the underperformance of glutamate …show more content…

In addition, the presence of high stress levels may have a leading role in triggering the onset of schizophrenia, by aggravating certain genetic and neurobiological vulnerabilities present in the …show more content…

The features of BPD, the most prominent PD, include self-oriented thought processes, fear of abandonment by peers, aggressive conduct, and abrupt, impulsive, and attention-seeking behaviour. HPD features a strong need to captivate attention, provocative behaviour and involves desire to induce lust in others. Dialectical behavioural-therapy has proven effective in treating BPD. This method involves developing stress-reduction skills, group and individual participation. Mood regulatory drugs are often prescribed to ease aggression in both BPD and HPD.
Cluster C consists of anxiety PDs, such as Avoidant and Dependent PD. Avoidant PD involves a lack of social engagement, similar to schizoid and schizotypal, but due to fear of social rejection or negative peer judgement. Dependent PD sufferers are peer and partner dependent, maintain an inability to function alone and are deeply fearful of abandonment. Short-term psychodynamic psychotherapy has proven effective for cluster C sufferers. Anti-depressants are also prescribed to ease anxiety associated with cluster

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