Obsessive-compulsive disorder as a part of prodromal schizophrenia

Abstract EN

Prodromal schizophrenia presents with a wide variety of psychiatric symptoms including obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or obsessive-compulsive symptoms (OCS).

However, this differentiation between a sole diagnosis of OCD and prodromal schizophrenia seems challenging in some settings.

We present a sixteen-year-old male with six-months history of recurrent intrusive images and fearfulness, in addition to decreased socialization.

He was managed as a case of prodromal schizophrenia and was treated with antipsychotics.

His obsessions decreased but he continued to exhibit negative schizophrenia within two years of follow-up.

Acknowledging the diversity of prodromal schizophrenia presentations rather than treating symptoms as a cross-sectional diagnosis (especially in high-risk population for psychosis) is crucial for a better management.