SCHIZOPHRENIA IN CHILDHOOD

Course overview

Very early onset schizophrenia (VEOS; i.e., schizophrenia with onset before the age of 13 years) is a rare psychotic disorder that can result in motor abnormalities and deep cognitive, perceptual, and speech disturbances. Abnormal neuroanatomical development may occur in children with VEOS, including a reduction in brain tissue (i.e., grey matter), enlarged ventricles, and loss of cerebellar volume. This continuing education module is designed to give the reader/learner an increased understanding of childhood schizophrenia, including its clinical presentation, symptoms, and treatment, and to aid in caring for the patient with this diagnosis. Readers may explore any or all of the topics. One contact hour of continuing education credit is available for those who successfully complete the post-test and evaluation form.