Schizophrenia and Psychotic Spectrum Disorders
Chapter 5: Schizophrenia in Children and Adolescents
Author(s): Carolyn Howell, Krista Baker, and Robert Findling
DOI:10.1093/med/9780199378067.003.0005
Early-onset schizophrenia (EOS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with a phenomenology that is similar to adult-onset schizophrenia. EOS encompasses childhood onset schizophrenia (COS)— defined as onset before age 13—and is extremely rare. Compared to adults, EOS is more severe with subtle differences in presentation, including a more insidious course and worse prognosis. In addition to genetics, both prenatal and perinatal conditions may contribute to the development of the disorder. Several randomized controlled trials have evaluated antipsychotics in youth. Several are indicated by the FDA to treat pediatric patients. More studies are needed to further evaluate efficacy and safety. More studies are needed to assess effective interventions in youth.