Diagnosing and Treating Psychotic Disorders in Old Age

Dear Colleagues,

Current research shows that elderly patients are at high risk for the development of psychotic symptoms. Several diagnostic categories can be associated with the presence of psychotic symptoms. This is the case for schizophrenia, delusional disorder, mood disorders, dementia, delirium, substance-use disorders, and other medical or neurologic conditions.

The recent literature shows that the efficacy of antipsychotic medications has been confined to the reduction in delusions and hallucinations, and to the diminishing of behavioral disturbances. Age alters the kinetics and dynamics of psychotropic medications, and drugs other than antipsychotics are being tested to treat cognitive, affective, and negative psychotic symptoms.

Knowledge of drug–drug interactions and comorbidities is of special interest for clinicians, as they contribute to higher mortality rates in older psychotic populations. The unmet needs of older patients must be assessed by a comprehensive history and accurate physical and mental health examinations. Adverse events should be checked and worked up, and polypharmacy should be avoided if possible. The role of psychological interventions in treating psychotic disorders in elderly patients is crucial.

This Special Issue aims to cover aspects of the pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapy of psychosis in older populations, including the treatment of schizophrenia, delusional disorder and other major disorders, dementia, delirium, and other medical conditions presenting psychotic symptoms. We invite authors to submit original articles and review articles.

Dr. Alexandre González-Rodríguez
Prof. Dr. Manuel Franco-Martin
Guest Editors

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