Schizoaffective Disorder
Schizoaffective disorder combines psychotic features with mood episodes. Accurate diagnosis guides effective treatment.
Symptoms
Hallucinations or delusions alongside depressive or manic episodes with fluctuating presentations.
Causes and risk
Genetic factors, brain chemistry, and stressful life events. Family history of schizophrenia or mood disorders increases risk.
How it is evaluated
Full psychiatric history, mood and psychotic symptom timelines, and differentiation from related conditions.
Treatment
Antipsychotics, mood stabilizers or antidepressants, therapy, and psychosocial support.