George Langwasser is a 45 year-old gentleman whose case history describes classic features of schizophrenia but the social worker notices in his chart that he has always experienced co-occurring symptoms of depression - that is, feeling "down in the dumps," poor appetite, feelings of hopelessness and insomnia - during his episodes of active psychosis and only during the 2-year period of the active symptoms of schizophrenia. Currently, his psychotic episodes are successfully controlled by medication and his chart reflects no further symptoms of depression. In fact, Mr. Langwasser has never met full diagnostic criteria for major depressive disorder at any time. Should his diagnosis of schizophrenia be changed?
A)No, the diagnosis of schizophrenia is correct
B)Yes, the diagnosis should be changed to persistent depressive disorder dysthymia)
C)Yes, the diagnosis should be changed to schizoaffective disorder
D)Yes, the diagnosis should be changed to schizophrenia and persistent depressive disorder dysthymia)

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Mr. Langwasser's case history describes classic features of schizophrenia and his symptoms of depression have only occurred during his episodes of active psychosis. Therefore, the diagnosis of schizophrenia is correct and there is no evidence to suggest a different diagnosis. It is possible for individuals with schizophrenia to experience co-occurring symptoms of depression, but this does not necessarily warrant a change in diagnosis.

George Langwasser Is a 45 Year-Old Gentleman Whose Case History