Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

What condition may be an early manifestation of schizophreniform disorder?

1. Major depressive disorder

2. Bipolar disorder

3. Schizophrenia

4. Delusional disorder

The correct answer is: Schizophrenia

The early manifestation of schizophreniform disorder is often associated with symptoms that resemble those seen in schizophrenia. Schizophreniform disorder is characterized by a duration of symptoms that lasts from one to six months and includes delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech, or grossly disorganized or catatonic behavior. Given its close relationship with schizophrenia in terms of symptomatology, individuals with schizophreniform disorder can exhibit signs similar to those in schizophrenia before a full diagnosis is confirmed. On the other hand, major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder have distinct symptom profiles centered around mood disturbances rather than psychotic symptoms. Delusional disorder involves fixed false beliefs without other schizophrenia-like symptoms, which also separates it from the initial manifestations of schizophreniform disorder. Therefore, schizophrenia is the most fitting condition that indicates the early stages of a potential transition into a more severe psychotic disorder like schizophreniform disorder.