SPEM dysfunction and general schizotypy as measured by the SSQ: a controlled study.
BACKGROUND
SPEM dysfunction is a well-known phenomenon in schizophrenia. The principal aim of the present study was to examine whether SPEM dysfunction is already observable in subjects scoring high on a specific measure of schizotypy (SSQ General Schizotypy) that was selected because of its intimate relationship with schizophrenic prodromal unfolding.


METHODS
Applying ANOVAs, we determined the relationship of subjects' scores on SSQ General Schizotypy and eye movements elicited by targets of different speed. We also examined whether there exists an association between our schizotypy measure and pupil size.


RESULTS
We found more SPEM dysfunction in subjects scoring high on SSQ General Schizotypy than in subjects scoring average on that factor, irrespective of the speed of the target. No relationship was found between baseline pupil size and General Schizotypy.


CONCLUSIONS
The present study provides additional evidence that SPEM dysfunction is associated with schizotypic features that precede the onset of schizophrenia and is already observable in general population subjects that show these features.
van Kampen
Dirk
D
Department of Oncology and Medical Physics, Haukeland University Hospital, N-5021 Bergen, Norway. oystein.fluge@gmail.com
Deijen
Jan Berend
JB
D000328:Adult; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D053483:Eye Movement Measurements; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D015835:Ocular Motility Disorders / Q000209:etiology*; D010555:Personality Inventory; D011569:Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; D011698:Pursuit, Smooth / Q000502:physiology*; D012559:Schizophrenia / Q000150:complications* / Q000175:diagnosis*; D012569:Schizotypal Personality Disorder / Q000209:etiology*