A young man with first-episode psychosis: case presentation and discussion.

OBJECTIVE

To review and discuss the issues and challenges involved in the treatment of first-episode psychosis in young patients, including choice of appropriate antipsychotic agents and adjunctive medications, dosing regimens, and biopsychosocial interventions.

METHODS

The case of a young man in his late teens with a history of substance abuse who experienced an acute dystonic reaction to treatment for his psychotic episode is presented and discussed.

RESULTS

Each contributing author provides an evaluation of the intervention strategies presented in the patient's history and factors that influenced the treatment outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

The successful management of young patients with psychosis must go beyond the control of positive symptoms. A comprehensive psychosocial and psychoeducational approach combined with a well-tolerated treatment regimen can help the patient achieve positive outcomes.