Schizoaffective disorderDownloads

A 23-year-old woman is brought to the emergency department by her boyfriend because of a 4-month history of feeling sad. Her boyfriend says that, during this period, she has slept and eaten very little and has been unable to focus at work. She says that she feels “empty inside” and has been hearing voices telling her that she is worthless. She first heard these voices 7 months ago when they started to make fun of her. She does not drink alcohol or use illicit drugs. Physical and neurological examinations show no abnormalities. On mental status examination, her speech is slow and monotonous; she abruptly stops talking in the middle of sentences and does not finish them. She occasionally directs her attention to the ceiling as if she were listening to someone. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

A 24-year-old man presents to the emergency department after a suicide attempt. He is admitted to the hospital and diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder. A review of medical records reveals a history of illicit drug use, particularly cocaine and amphetamines. He is started on aripiprazole, paroxetine, and trazodone. At the time of discharge, he appeared more coherent and with a marked improvement in positive symptoms of hallucinations and delusions but still with a flat effect. During the patient’s first follow-up visit, his mother reports he has become increasingly agitated and restless despite compliance with his medications. She reports that her son’s hallucinations and delusions have stopped and he does not have suicidal ideations, but he cannot sit still and continuously taps his feet, wiggles his fingers, and paces in his room. When asked if anything is troubling him, he stands up and paces around the room. He says, “I cannot sit still. Something is happening to me.” A urine drug screen is negative. What is the next best step in the management of this patient?