Does Relapse In Schizophrenia Cause Neurodegeneration? A Simulcast Debate & Virtual Forum To Explore The Evidence

Description

Virtual Forum: Does Relapse In Schizophrenia Cause Neurodegeneration? A Simulcast Debate & Virtual Forum To Explore The Evidence

Location: Online Via PsychU.org

Description: There is a continuous debate in the mental health community around the progressive nature of schizophrenia as a disease: Is schizophrenia a neurodegenerative disease that changes the brain over time, or a neurodevelopmental disorder that begins early in life?[1] From either perspective, it is clear that relapse in schizophrenia is an unwanted event that may cause worsening of symptoms and disruption to the patient's personal, social, and occupational activities.[2]

During this virtual discussion forum, renowned psychiatrists Peter J. Weiden, M.D. and Henry Nasrallah, M.D. will discuss their opinions on whether relapse episodes in schizophrenia are either the primary cause of neurodegeneration or a secondary effect. Doctors Weiden and Nasrallah will cover the impact of relapse on patients and their lives, as well as the consequences of relapse to the progression of the disease. The discussion will conclude with time for questions and interaction with the audience.

The online debate will include:

• A discussion on the effects of relapse on patients with schizophrenia
• A look at how relapse can lead to neurodegeneration
• An exploration of the additional factors that can lead to neurodegeneration, discounting relapse

Don't miss your chance to join Peter J. Weiden, M.D., Professor of Psychiatry and Director of the Psychotic Disorders Program at the Center for Cognitive Medicine at University of Illinois Medical Center; and Henry Nasrallah, M.D., editor-in-chief, Schizophrenia Research and Current Psychiatry for this important discussion.

1. Rund BR. Is schizophrenia a neurodegenerative disorder? Nord J Psychiatry. 2009;63(3):196-201.
2. Lader M. What is relapse in schizophrenia? Int Clin Psychopharmacol. 1995 Jan;9 Suppl 5:5-9. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7622834

Event Speakers

Peter J. Weiden, MD
Featured Speaker

Professor of Psychiatry and Director of the Psychotic Disorders Program at the Center for Cognitive Medicine at University of Illinois Medical Center (UIC) in Chicago, Illinois.

Henry Nasrallah, MD
Featured Speaker

Saint Louis University, Sydney W. Souers Professor, Chair, Department of Neurology & Psychiatry