SCHIZOPHRENIA: ADVANCES IN NEUROIMAGING AND PHARMACOLOGICAL TREATMENTS

Abstract

This article reviewed the current literature on schizophrenia, a disabling mental disorder characterized by positive, negative and cognitive symptoms. The prevalence of the disorder is up to 1% in the general population, with an increase to 10% among first-degree relatives. Pathological mechanisms involve imbalances in dopaminergic neurotransmission and changes in neuronal connectivity. Current treatments, predominantly antipsychotics, have limited effectiveness, mainly benefiting positive symptoms, while negative and cognitive symptoms often persist without adequate treatment. Furthermore, antipsychotics are associated with serious side effects, such as neurological and metabolic disorders. The review covered studies published between May and July 2024, using databases such as SciELO, PubMed and LILACS. The in-depth understanding of the brain circuits affected by schizophrenia suggests the urgent need for new therapeutic approaches that target both the symptoms and the underlying causes of the disorder, emphasizing the importance of effective treatment and monitoring of patients with schizophrenia to improve quality of life and enable greater social inclusion.