Evaluation of Patients Diagnosed with Schizophrenia by Using Survival Curves

Abstract

The main objective of this paper is to use the survival analyses instrument in the schizophrenic patients with changes in the cognitive processes, considering relapses as the target event. A retrospective study was carried out in 64 patients diagnosed with schizophrenia, which were followed up within the Mental Health Laboratory, Cluj-Napoca, over the period of January 2002- December 2004. Nine patients (11.76%) out of the whole group of 64 subjects experienced relapses. The sex distribution in the group was homogeneous, but relapses were more frequent in females (19.35%). More relapses were registered within the age group 31-40 years. The patients who relapsed were divorced, alcohol consumers with hypoprosexism. As far as the response to treatment is concerned (Conventional antipsychotics, Olanzapine, Risperidone), the relapses were more frequent in patients treated with conventional antipsychotics, but a statistical significance was found (p=0,036). The mean period for relapse was 1156 days. In conclusions for schizophrenic patients, relapses are varied depending on several factors. It is important to establish the maximum period of relapse for subsequent follow-up and management.