FMGE 2018 — Psychiatry

Q: Negative symptoms of schizophrenia are all except:-

Over activity. ***Over activity*** - **Overactivity** is a manifestation of disorganized or positive symptoms in schizophrenia, such as **agitation** or purposeless movements, rather than a deficiency. - While it can occur in schizophrenia, it represents an excess or distortion of normal function, distinguishing it from **negative symptoms** which reflect a reduction or absence of typical behaviors. *Apathy* - **Apathy**, or avolition, is a core negative symptom characterized by a **lack of motivation** and an inability to initiate or persist in goal-directed activities. - Patients with apathy often show diminished interest in daily activities and personal care. *Anhedonia* - **Anhedonia** is a negative symptom defined by the **inability to experience pleasure** from activities that are usually enjoyable. - This can include a loss of interest in social interactions, hobbies, and other rewarding experiences. *Alogia* - **Alogia**, or poverty of speech, is a negative symptom characterized by a **reduction in the quantity and fluency of speech**. - Individuals with alogia may provide brief, empty responses and exhibit long pauses during conversation. [Practice more Psychiatry PYQs on OnCourse]

Q: Double depression is seen in:

Depression with dysthymia. ***Depression with dysthymia*** - **Double depression** is a specific mood disorder characterized by the co-occurrence of a **major depressive episode** on top of a pre-existing **dysthymic disorder** (persistent depressive disorder). - This means an individual experiences the chronic, milder symptoms of dysthymia, which are then worsened by the more severe symptoms of a major depressive episode. *Depression with anxiety attack* - While depression and anxiety attacks can co-occur, this specific combination is not referred to as **double depression**. - **Anxiety attacks** are acute episodes of intense fear and discomfort, often associated with panic disorder, and are distinct from chronic low-grade depressive symptoms. *Major depression with OCD* - **Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)** is a distinct anxiety disorder characterized by obsessions and compulsions, which can co-occur with major depression. - However, the term **double depression** specifically refers to the combination of major depression and dysthymia, not other psychiatric comorbidities. *Major depressive disorder from 2 years* - Experiencing **major depressive disorder for 2 years** implies a chronic course of major depression. - If the symptoms meet the criteria for major depressive disorder continuously for at least two years, it might be termed **chronic major depressive disorder**, but not double depression, unless there was an underlying dysthymia. [Practice more Psychiatry PYQs on OnCourse]

Q: Management of a violent patient in psychiatry includes all except:

CBT. ***CBT*** - **Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)** is a long-term psychological intervention aimed at changing maladaptive thought patterns and behaviors. It is **not suitable for immediate management** of an acutely violent patient. - While CBT can be beneficial for aggression management in a stable patient, it requires patient cooperation, cognitive engagement, and time, which are not available during a **violent psychiatric emergency**. *Haloperidol* - **Haloperidol** is a potent typical antipsychotic frequently used in acute settings for rapid tranquilization of violent or severely agitated patients. - It is effective in reducing **psychosis-related agitation** and can be administered **intramuscularly** for quick onset of action. - Often used in combination with benzodiazepines for optimal control of acute violence. *ECT* - **Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)** may be considered in **severe, treatment-resistant cases** of violence associated with conditions like uncontrolled mania, catatonic excitement, or psychotic depression when pharmacological interventions have failed. - While not used for immediate acute management due to logistical requirements (consent, anesthesia, specialized setup), it can be an effective option for severe psychiatric conditions with persistent violence. - It works by inducing a brief controlled seizure, which can rapidly alleviate severe symptoms. *BZD* - **Benzodiazepines (BZDs)** like lorazepam or diazepam are **first-line agents** in the acute management of violent or agitated patients due to their rapid anxiolytic, sedative, and muscle relaxant properties. - They are particularly useful for **calming acute agitation** and are often combined with antipsychotics for rapid tranquilization. - Can be administered intramuscularly or intravenously for quick action in psychiatric emergencies. [Practice more Psychiatry PYQs on OnCourse]

3 Previous Year Questions with Answers & Explanations

Questions

Negative symptoms of schizophrenia are all except:-

Double depression is seen in:

Management of a violent patient in psychiatry includes all except: