Schizoaffective disorder

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Causes

By Mayo Clinic staff

Schizoaffective disorder, like schizophrenia, appears to have distinct genetic links. It's unknown exactly what causes the disorder, but it may involve brain chemistry, such as an imbalance of serotonin and dopamine in the brain. Serotonin and dopamine are neurotransmitters — chemicals that help relay electronic signals in the brain — and help regulate mood.

Exposure in the womb to toxins or viral illness, or even birth complications, also may play a role.

Risk factors Symptoms

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References
  1. Schizoaffective disorder. In: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders DSM-IV-TR. 4th ed. Arlington, Va.: American Psychiatric Association; 2000. http://www.psychiatryonline.com. Accessed Oct. 14, 2010.
  2. Schizophrenia. In: Hales RE, et al. The American Psychiatric Publishing Textbook of Psychiatry. 5th ed. Washington, D.C.: American Psychiatric Pub; 2008. http://www.psychiatryonline.com. Accessed Oct. 14, 2010.
  3. Factsheet: Schizoaffective disorder. Mental Health America. http://www.mentalhealthamerica.net/index.cfm?objectid=C7DF97FD-1372-4D20-C8F0FBF1C871E040. Accessed Oct. 14, 2010.
  4. Schizoaffective disorder. National Alliance on Mental Illness. http://www.nami.org/Content/ContentGroups/Helpline1/Schizoaffective_Disorder.htm. Accessed Oct. 14, 2010.
  5. Gejman PV, et al. The role of genetics in the etiology of schizophrenia. Psychiatric Clinics of North America. 2010;33:35.
  6. Jibson MD. Schizophrenia: Clinical presentation, epidemiology, and pathophysiology. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Oct. 14, 2010.
  7. Jibson MD. Schizophrenia: Diagnostic evaluation and treatment. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Oct. 14, 2010.
  8. Schizoaffective disorder. The Merck Manuals: The Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals. http://www.merck.com/mmpe/sec15/ch202/ch202d.html. Accessed Oct. 14, 2010.
  9. Hall-Flavin DK (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Nov. 30, 2010.
  10. Schizoaffective. Micromedex Healthcare Series. http://www.micromedex.com. Accessed Dec. 2, 2010.
DS00866 Dec. 21, 2010

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