Vol 3 n° 2 - Schizophrenia: Specific Topics
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7 3 E d i t o r i a l Dear Colleagues, Our daily clinical practice reminds us that the symptoms of schizophrenia are extraordi- narily varied and that the effects of treatment are uncertain. This state of affairs is probably due to our relative ignorance of the mechanisms and etiology of the disorder. Even though many aspects of schizophrenia are quite well elucidated, we are still lacking a satisfying model of the illness. Treatment is still aimed at symptoms, rather than at etiological mechanisms. This issue of Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience is a treasure trove of hypotheses and sug- gestions for research. The contributors give an excellent description of the current state of knowledge on schizophrenia. Fascinating views on the origin and spectrum of the disorder are provided by articles on childhood psychosis, the prodromal phase and the possibility of pro- phylaxis, and the role of genetic factors. Also of great interest is the influence exerted by sit- uation, time, age, or location on the manifestations of the illness. For instance, specific settings like China are described and serve to illustrate the interaction of biological and sociocultural factors. This is the second issue of Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience devoted to schizophrenia. Carol Tamminga, a world-renowned expert in schizophrenia from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, coordinated this issue and selected the contributors.We hope that this information will motivate clinicians and researchers alike to dedicate their time to this puzzling disorder and the patients who are afflicted. Yours sincerely, Jean-Paul Macher, MD Marc-Antoine Crocq, MD