Schizophrenia

Alternate Names : Schizophrenic Disorder

How is the condition diagnosed?

There is no single test to diagnose schizophrenia. A psychiatrist makes the diagnosis based on the person's history and symptoms. Before the diagnosis is made, symptoms must be present for at least six months. Drug use or another medical condition must be ruled out as the cause of the symptoms. Blood, urine, and other tests may be done to look for any underlying medical disorders. Special x-ray tests of the brain, such as cranial CT scans, may also be done.