Childhood schizophrenia: theoretical and treatment issues.
Michael is an 8.5-year-old Caucasian male inpatient who presented at admission with severe agitation, suicidal impulses, and aggression toward his 18-month-old sister. He had been treated with stimulant medications before admission. Past history revealed bilateral genetic loading with two primary family members having a history of hallucinations and hospitalization, and two paternal aunts who were hospitalized since early childhood. Michael was raised in a chaotic, violent family environment where there was emotional, physical, and perhaps sexual abuse. Medical history included frequent staring spells. During residential treatment, more extensive interviews revealed a year's history of auditory hallucinations, inappropriate and labile affect, and a fixed delusional system. The patient was switched to neuroleptics and showed a slow response despite high doses.
Perlmutter
I R
IR
Greenhill
L L
LL
Chambers
W
W
Kestenbaum
C J
CJ
D002648:Child; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008774:Methylphenidate / Q000009:adverse effects; D012559:Schizophrenia / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy
D008774:Methylphenidate