2 NAMES, 1 DISEASE: Does schizophrenia=psychotic bipolar disorder? in Current Psychiatry Online suggests that schizophrenia is actually severe bipolar I psychosis and not a separate diagnosis. A comprehensive clinical review references questions going back many years, and argues that incorrect diagnosis has many implications. For the patient they include “less likely to receive a mood stabilizer or antidepressant…symptoms worsen” and “more likely to receive neuroleptics for life, increasing risk for severe and permanent side effects.”

The idea that “symptoms should be treated, not the diagnosis” is inaccurate and provides substandard care. When psychotic symptoms overwhelm and obscure bipolar symptoms, giving only antipsychotics is beyond standard of care.

It’s an interesting perspective and one that could change a lot of things. We’d love to hear your comments.

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    Last reviewed: By John M. Grohol, Psy.D. on 7 Mar 2006
    Published on PsychCentral.com. All rights reserved.