Classification issues in the developmental disorders: the case of autism and schizophrenia. (October 2012)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Rapin, Isabelle; Snodgrass, Samuel Robert
• Is Part Of: Neuropsychiatry. Volume 2:Number 5(2012)
• Page Start: 415
• Page End: 427
• Publication Date: 2012-10
• Subjects: Psychology, Pathological -- Periodicals; Mental illness -- Periodicals; Neuropsychiatry -- Periodicals; Mental Disorders -- Periodicals; Nervous System Diseases -- Periodicals; Neuropsychiatry -- Periodicals; Mental illness; Neuropsychiatry; Psychology, Pathological; 616.8
• DOI: 10.2217/npy.12.46
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1758-2008

Abstract

SUMMARY New information continuously alters scientific classifications and their applications. A revision in progress of the DSMIVTR, which concerns classification of disorders, predominantly of behavioral symptoms, suggests reconsideration of overlaps and differences between two broad families of developmental disorders: autisms and schizophrenias. Developmental disorders are classified within two independent domains: behavioral/descriptive (level A) and biologic/etiologic (level C). Level A classification is syndromic and based on aggregates of mostly continuous, dimensional features with indistinct margins. Etiologic level C classification is based largely on categorical interacting genetic and environmental factors responsible for level A syndromes. Level B encompasses biologic mechanisms (pathogenesis) linking etiology (level C) to behavior (level A). Many level B hierarchical molecular and cellular networks contribute to the structure and function of the many brain networks responsible for level A behaviors. Autism and schizophrenia share some behavioral and cognitive characteristics, pathogenic mechanisms and etiologies, but major clinical disparities (level A) separate them.