The diagnosis of schizophrenia in the borderline learning-disabled forensic population: six case-reports

Abstract

Population surveys indicate an increased prevalence of schizophrenia in the learning-disabled population. Extensive assessment and observation may be necessary to detect schizophrenia which may be undiagnosed and directly related to offending behaviour. Six male patients admitted to an open forensic psychiatric unit for people with mild and borderline learning disability are presented: in these men schizophrenia was previously unrecognized. Treatment led to a marked clinical improvement. There is a need to be particularly aware of the possibility of schizophrenia in this population.