Neuroimaging of Schizophrenia and Other Primary Psychotic Disorders

Book excerpt: This book presents the state of the art in the use of neuroimaging technologies in the study of schizophrenia and other primary psychotic disorders. The contributions of neuroimaging in the characterization of these disorders are reviewed across diagnoses, by focusing on psychopathological domains and at-risk populations in order to understand the implications for treatment. The principal neuroimaging findings are described in detail, identifying those that are common to and specific for each disorder and highlighting important pitfalls. Attention is drawn to potential translational aspects of research in the field, with discussion of emerging innovative perspectives. Neuroimaging research has shown that abnormalities of brain structure and function associated with psychiatric disorders do not reflect the boundaries of current diagnostic categories. However, neuroimaging findings are being reconsidered in the light of recent research proposals aimed at re-conceptualizing classification systems in Psychiatry. Written by leading experts, this book will appeal to all with an interest in the field, including researchers, clinicians, and trainees.