CLINICAL AND EPIDEMIOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF SCHIZOPHRENIA: A LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

An integrative literature review is presented on the spectrum of schizophrenia, its clinical and epidemiological aspects, as well as the impact of this condition on the individual's life. Schizophrenia is a chronic idiopathic psychosis, appearing to be a set of different illnesses with similar and overlapping symptoms. It is characterized by distortions of thought, self-perception and external reality. It is a long-lasting syndrome with an early onset, associated with a series of symptoms and signs such as hallucinations, apathy, social isolation and even suicide. It has a multifactorial origin where genetic and environmental factors seem to be associated with an increased risk of developing the disease. Diagnostic criteria are used to define the condition, which can coexist with other comorbidities. There is a need for a multidisciplinary team to intervene to improve patients' quality of life, as well as treatment aimed at the various aspects of this disorder.