How many subtypes of schizophrenia are known?

The aim of all the tests is to differentiate between the several subtypes of schizophrenia, but not everyone fits in a specific category. The five common types of schizophrenia include 1) paranoid, 2) catatonic 3) disorganized 4) undifferentiated and 5) residual.

The majority of patients have the undifferentiated subtype whose dominant symptoms may be from any one of the other subtypes. The paranoid schizophrenia subtype is characterized by delusions and hallucinations, and has the best chance of improvement.

Does one have to have specific mental symptoms to be diagnosed as schizophrenic?

Yes, the diagnosis of schizophrenia is based on certain criteria established by the Diagnostic and statistical Manual of mental Disorders (DSM). The schizophrenia diagnostic test requires that an individual have at least two of the common symptoms of the disorder like delusions, hallucination, disorganized speech, abnormal behaviors or presence of negative symptoms for one month. Moreover, the schizophrenia test must indicate that the individual is significantly impaired and unable to work, attend school of perform daily living tasks. The symptoms must be present for at least 6 months.

Is there a blood test for schizophrenia?

When doctors suspect a mental health disorder with paranoia, the first schizophrenia diagnostic test is to conduct a proper physical exam and a number of psychological tests. The schizophrenia diagnosis test usually involves answering standardized questionnaires. Schizophrenia symptoms test also involves performing laboratory tests to help rule out any other medical condition and to screen for alcohol, prescription and illicit drugs. Some doctors will often order a CT scan or an MRI to make sure that there is no sinister pathology lurking in the brain. You will also undergo comprehensive psychological evaluation where a professional will observe your appearance, mannerism, speech, behavior and asking about different thoughts, delusions, hallucinations and potential for harm.

How is the diagnosis of schizophrenia usually made?

There are no definitive diagnostics tests for schizophrenia. If you have a family member or a friend whom you suspect of having symptoms of schizophrenia, the first step is to see your doctor.  Ultimately, you may be referred to a psychiatrist, as most general practitioners do not understand the intricacies about treating this peculiar mental disorder. The schizophrenia diagnostic test means that you write down all your symptoms and when they started. You also need to include all the recent stress or life changes that have taken place. The schizophrenia symptoms test also requires that you provide a list of all the medications, vitamins and supplements that you are taking.

Before you go to the doctor for your schizophrenia symptom test, write down questions that you want answered. Some basic questions that you should ask include 1) what is the likely cause for the symptoms, 2) what are other possibilities, 3) what type of test are required, 4) Is the condition chronic, 5) how is it treated and 6) where can I find material to read about the disorder.

The doctor says my brother has undifferentiated schizophrenia. What does this mean?

The undifferentiated subtype is diagnosed when individuals have symptoms of schizophrenia that are not clear or specific enough to permit classification of the mental disorder into one of the other subtypes. The symptoms may fluctuate at different points in time, resulting in confusion and uncertainty as to the correct subtype of schizophrenia. Other individuals may people exhibit symptoms that are remarkably stable over time but still not fit one of the typical subtype pictures. In either instance, diagnosis of the undifferentiated subtype may best describe the mixed clinical syndrome.

What is disorganized schizophrenia?

Another subtype is disorganized schizophrenia, which is also lifelong and has the worst prognosis. It is also known as hebephrenic schizophrenia. Disorganized schizophrenia is characterized by incoherent thoughts, bizarre behavior and illogical thinking. Individuals with disorganized schizophrenia are unable to carry out the simple daily living activities like dressing, eating or showering. Most of the individuals are difficult to understand. They do tend to get angry and lash out very easily because of frustration. The majority become institutionalized over time.

Which subtype of schizophrenia has the best prognosis?

Paranoid schizophrenia is one of several types of schizophrenia. Like all other types of schizophrenia, paranoid schizophrenia is also life long. The disorder has many features of paranoia. The typical clinical features of paranoid schizophrenia are having false beliefs (delusion) and hearing things that others cannot hear (auditory hallucinations).

Unlike other types of schizophrenia, the prognosis for paranoid type is better. Even though these individuals have disordered thoughts and abnormal thinking, they are better able to function in life than other subtypes of schizophrenia. Overall, individuals with paranoid schizophrenia generally tend to have more of the positive rather than the negative symptoms. These positive symptoms include presence of unusual persecutory thoughts and delusions. Unlike the other subtypes of schizophrenia, paranoid schizophrenics do not develop too many memory or concentration problems. However, it should be remembered that paranoid schizophrenia is still a serious long-term illness that has an increased risk of suicide.