R. Brugnoli, T. Arcangeli, P. Pancheri- Vol. 5, Dicembre 1999, num.4
Testo Immagini Bibliografia Summary Riassunto Indice
Indagine conoscitiva sui disturbi
dello spettro schizofrenico
A survey of schizophrenic spectrum disorders
In this paper we present data of a survey on treatment approaches of a population of Italian psychiatrists. A questionnaire consisting in 26 items focusing on their treatment practice when dealing with schizophrenic patients was sent to 5,000 psychiatrists, of which 556 returned the filled-out questionnaire form. The questionnaire covered three investigation areas, i.e., diagnostic criteria for schizophrenia, treatment habits, and atypical antipsychotic drug use, with particular attention to risperidone and clozapine. Data analysis highlighted some important aspects. First, a dimensional approach to diagnosis and drug use, despite allowing to work better, is not the rule. Second, Italian psychiatrists rate risperidone as faster than clozapine in inducing response to treatment, as it allows to reach earlier the effective treatment dose.