Kraepelin, who in 1896 first defined the disorder now known as schizophrenia, appreciated that there were many difficulties with the concept, and believed that, since the cause of the disorder was essentially unknown, there could be no rational treatment. This authoritative 1999 text provides a wide-ranging survey of the disorder, including an extensive account of what was known about the underlying biology. The main part of the book covers clinical aspects, including differential and dual diagnosis, and treatment and management problems, particularly in relation to care in the community. Topics covered include brain imaging, genetics, pharmacology and neuropsychology, as well as chapters on health economics and forensic issues. The authors have extensive clinical experience with schizophrenia patients, and this book, which is unusual in its breadth and its concern for social and community issues, will be a valuable reference for all psychiatrists, and other health professionals involved in the management of schizophrenia.

This book describes what schizophrenia is really like, how the illness progresses and the treatments that have been applied. It also summarizes the most up-to-date knowledge available about the biological bases of this disorder. Finally, it attempts to give some idea of what it is like to have schizophrenia and what this disorder tells us about the relationship between the mind and the brain.