A High Prevalence of Affective Disorder Discovered in a ‘Schizophrenia Clinic’

Abstract

Fifty outpatients in a ‘schizophrenia clinic’ were examined, and sixteen were found to be suffering from periodic affective disorders. Nine of these were given lithium carbonate, and eight responded well. Case histories illustrate three separate reasons for incorrect diagnosis. Examination of extensive old clinical notes of five of these patients suggests that the problems of diagnosis which have been described in the literature in the past, continue to represent obstacles to correct diagnosis. Suggestions for improvement are offered.