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The predictability of relapses in schizophrenic patients

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Summary

The objective of this study was to identify clinically relevant predictors of short-term (2 years) outcome in schizophrenic patients and to gather these predictors into one simple prognosis model for the course of the disease. Ninety-nine schizophrenic outpatients classified according to DSM-III criteria were observed for 3 years with regard to their relapse (rehospitalization) frequency. Predictors of both a high and a low relapse risk permitting a prognostic assessment of the individual case were based on various sources: case history data, especially those relating to the previous course of the disease; cocial and therapeutic situation; psychopathological findings; emotional family atmosphere; and prognosis scales.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Psychiatry, University of Muenster, Muenster, Federal Republic of Germany

    G. Buchkremer & H. Kuhs

  2. Rochushospital, Telgte, Federal Republic of Germany

    K. Stricker

  3. ZMBT (Statistics and Data Center for Clinical Trials, Department of Medical Biometry and Medical Informatics, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Federal Republic of Germany

    R. Holle

Authors
  1. G. Buchkremer
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  2. K. Stricker
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  3. R. Holle
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  4. H. Kuhs
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This study was funded by the Ministry of Research and Technology of the Federal Republic of Germany

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Buchkremer, G., Stricker, K., Holle, R. et al. The predictability of relapses in schizophrenic patients. Eur Arch Psychiatry Clin Nuerosci 240, 292–300 (1991). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02189543

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02189543

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