The classification of first episode schizophrenia: a cluster-analytical approach.
OBJECTIVE
This paper examines, using data from the Cantabria First Episode Schizophrenia Study, the usefulness of subdividing, using a cluster analysis technique, this schizophrenia population into subgroups with similar symptoms profiles in terms of SANS and SAPS.


METHODS
Diagnostic characteristics were determined using the Present State Examination (PSE-9) and the SANS/SAPS. Premorbid adjustment was assessed using a scale developed combining the Gittelman and Klein's Scales, and the Goldstein's scales. Social Adjustment was evaluated using the WHO-DAS. In addition clinical histories were used to assess the patients' clinical course.


RESULTS
Our schizophrenic patients could be subtyped into four categories: negative, positive non-paranoid, simple and disorganized schizophrenia. There is an absence of significant association between the majority of the variables investigated and the four-cluster model.


CONCLUSIONS
Even though our sample could be subtyped into different categories, the model does not show predictive power according to the 3-year follow-up data.
Lastra
I
I
Psychiatric Hospital Padre Menni, Santander, Spain.
Vázquez-Barquero
J L
JL
Herrera Castanedo
S
S
Cuesta
M J
MJ
Vázquez-Bourgon
M E
ME
Dunn
G
G
D000208:Acute Disease; D016000:Cluster Analysis; D015986:Confounding Factors, Epidemiologic; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008960:Models, Psychological; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011569:Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D012559:Schizophrenia / Q000145:classification / Q000175:diagnosis*; D012565:Schizophrenic Psychology; D012917:Social Adjustment