Diagnosis Copy

There are many different diagnoses that are associated with psychosis. The most common diagnoses include Schizophrenia, Schizophreniform disorder, Schizoaffective disorder, Bipolar I Disorder, and Major Depression with Psychotic Features. The diagnosis Psychosis NOS (not otherwise specified) may be used when a persons symptoms do not meet criteria for any specific diagnosis.

Diagnosis provides important information on possible treatments and outcomes. A diagnostic formulation should be completed, including all five DSM-IV axes and possible rule-out diagnoses.

In early psychosis, diagnostic changes are common. The temporal criteria in the DSM-V necessitate some diagnostic changes (e.g., schizophreniform to schizophrenia) and symptoms may also shift over time. Therefore, diagnostic reassessment several times per year is recommended. Diagnoses should be made with direct reference to the DSM-V by a qualified professional.

The following diagnostic flow chart provides a quick overview of the criteria for the disorders most commonly associated with psychosis.

Download the diagnostic flow chart here.

• Review the diagnostic flow chart. Based on the information you have obtained so far about David, what are the possible diagnoses?