Brain Atrophy in First-Episode Psychosis of the Elderly Is Associated With Cognitive Decline.

To study brain atrophy and cognitive decline in elderly patients with first-episode psychosis (FEP). Elderly patients aged ≥ 60 years with FEP and onset of psychotic symptoms of ≤ 1 year remitted to the Helsinki University Hospital from December 2009 to December 2011 were included in the study. Diagnoses were made using criteria.

Introducing a family intervention to elderly with first episode psychosis.

Schizophrenia guidelines list family interventions as an efficient means in reducing relapses. Interventions aim to help families cope with their relative's problems more effectively, provide support and education, and reduce levels of distress and improve the family communication (see deHaan et al., 2002).

Brain atrophy is a frequent finding in elderly patients with first episode psychosis.

Background: To characterize the yearly incidence, diagnostic distribution, and neuro-radiologic findings in patients aged over 60 years, referred to psychiatric treatment with first episode psychosis (FEP).

Methods: A computerized search, including all patients referred to psychiatric treatment during 12 consecutive months with a de novo diagnosis of psychosis was performed in the Helsinki region catchment area with 1.2 million inhabitants.

Comparison between clinical diagnosis and CSF biomarkers of Alzheimer disease in elderly patients with late onset psychosis: Helsinki Old Age Psychosis Study (HOPS).

Objectives: To determine the proportion of elderly people with a first psychotic episode actually suffering from dementia, especially Alzheimer disease (AD), by using cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers.

Design: Prospective case-control study.

Setting And Participants: Sixty-six patients age 65 years and older with recent psychotic symptoms and 12 comparison subjects with chronic schizophrenia over 10 years that were referred to acute old age psychiatry, in-ward treatment.