“One in a million”: A case of a very early onset schizophrenia

Abstract

Introduction: Very early onset schizophrenia (VEOS), psychosis prior to age 13, is rare with an incidence of less than 0.04%. Its clinical presentation, course, and outcome differ from early onset (ages 13–18) and adult onset (ages 18 and up) schizophrenia. It is associated with poor response to treatment, poorer prognosis, and multiple hospitalizations. Early identification and intervention has shown to improve overall functioning. Case Report: We present a case of a 12-year-old female with significant family history of psychosis, admitted due to physical and verbal aggression, sexual inappropriateness, destruction of property, response to internal stimuli, decline in functioning, and 10 month history of social isolation. She responded to risperidone treatment. The patient was discharged to partial hospitalization program but could not tolerate the group setting resulting in discharge to outpatient services. Psychosocial supports were put in place to help with environmental and family dynamics to improve outcome. Conclusion: As per a recent study, one-third of children and adolescents with psychosis initially present with negative symptoms. It has also been reported that 30% of those with negative symptoms develop treatment failure with antipsychotics. Given these statistics and the treatment challenges of this case, it was imperative to provide additional psychosocial supports to the patients and families, to improve overall functioning and long-term prognosis.