New Test May Predict Schizophrenia
A new test developed by researchers at Scotland's Edinburgh University, claims to accurately predict schizophrenia up to 3 years before onset. The test measures memory, IQ, motor skills and verbal learning.
They tested 163 people with family histories of schizophrenia over a period of 10 years. They also tested individuals with no family history. The tests included brain scans.
45% of the high risk people showed symptons of schizophrenia, 3 years later only 12% actually developed the disorder. The people who went on to develop schizophrenia were shy and oversensitive. Their IQs were normal but their memory ability was not as good. Their thalamus, a part of the brain, was also smaller.
Their is no cure for schizophrenia. It can be controled with medication, and those diagnosed early tend to fair better.
This is good news for those with a history of schizophrenia in their family history. In the future they could be tested and get early treatment if they show to be in the danger group.
They tested 163 people with family histories of schizophrenia over a period of 10 years. They also tested individuals with no family history. The tests included brain scans.
45% of the high risk people showed symptons of schizophrenia, 3 years later only 12% actually developed the disorder. The people who went on to develop schizophrenia were shy and oversensitive. Their IQs were normal but their memory ability was not as good. Their thalamus, a part of the brain, was also smaller.
Their is no cure for schizophrenia. It can be controled with medication, and those diagnosed early tend to fair better.
This is good news for those with a history of schizophrenia in their family history. In the future they could be tested and get early treatment if they show to be in the danger group.
posted by Ellie at 8:35 PM
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