BACKGROUND: In order to identify and possibly prevent psychosis at prodromal stages, it is important to learn how patients and families perceive initial prodromes, particularly the prodromal subjective experiences. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We explore prodromal phenomena and identify potential core dimensions in 19 first-episode DSM-IV schizophrenia patients and describe experiences and behaviour that appear to be essential components of initial prodromes. RESULTS AND INTERPRETATION: The subjects reported serious difficulties interpreting and talking about prodromal experiences at the time when they occurred; this caused delayed identification, the reasons for which we report. Out of eight groups of prodromal experiences we highlight two as tentative core dimensions: [disturbance of perception of self] and [extreme preoccupation by and withdrawal to overvalued ideas]. Four potential dimensions of prodromal behaviour are also identified: (1) leaving school, university or job, or major school truancy, (2) marked and lasting observable shift of interests, (3) marked and lasting social passivity, withdrawal, or isolation, and (4) marked and lasting change in global appearance or behaviour.
BACKGROUND: In order to identify and possibly prevent psychosis at prodromal stages, it is important to learn how patients and families perceive initial prodromes, particularly the prodromal subjective experiences. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We explore prodromal phenomena and identify potential core dimensions in 19 first-episode DSM-IV schizophreniapatients and describe experiences and behaviour that appear to be essential components of initial prodromes. RESULTS AND INTERPRETATION: The subjects reported serious difficulties interpreting and talking about prodromal experiences at the time when they occurred; this caused delayed identification, the reasons for which we report. Out of eight groups of prodromal experiences we highlight two as tentative core dimensions: [disturbance of perception of self] and [extreme preoccupation by and withdrawal to overvalued ideas]. Four potential dimensions of prodromal behaviour are also identified: (1) leaving school, university or job, or major school truancy, (2) marked and lasting observable shift of interests, (3) marked and lasting social passivity, withdrawal, or isolation, and (4) marked and lasting change in global appearance or behaviour.