Dementia praecox

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Dementia Praecox

Dementia praecox (pronounced: /dɪˈmɛnʃə ˈpreɪkɒks/) is a historical term that was formerly used to describe a chronic, deteriorating psychotic disorder characterized by rapid cognitive disintegration, usually beginning in the late teens or early adulthood.

Etymology

The term "dementia praecox" was first used in the late 19th century by Arnold Pick, a Czech psychiatrist. He used it to describe a mental disorder that appeared to strike in the prime of life, leading to rapid cognitive decline. The term is Latin for "premature dementia" or "early onset dementia".

Related Terms

  • Schizophrenia: In the early 20th century, the psychiatrist Emil Kraepelin narrowed the concept of dementia praecox and distinguished it from other forms of dementia such as Alzheimer's disease. He eventually identified dementia praecox with what is now known as schizophrenia.
  • Psychosis: Dementia praecox is characterized by chronic, deteriorating psychotic behavior. Psychosis is a symptom, not an illness, and it is more than just having a mental illness. Psychosis is characterized by an impaired relationship with reality.
  • Cognitive Disintegration: This is a key feature of dementia praecox, referring to the progressive loss of cognitive functions, including memory, attention, and problem-solving skills.

See Also

External links

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