Serum cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate levels in schizophrenic patients and their first-degree relatives.

Aims: Alterations in cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) levels are thought to play a role in the pathophysiology of neuropsychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of serum cortisol and DHEA-S in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia.

Methods: Sixty schizophrenic patients, 70 healthy first-degree relatives, and 60 healthy volunteers were included.