Based on the recent research evidence we have previously suggested a subtyping strategy for OC schizophrenia based on the chronology of symptom emergence
:
1. OCS occurring during prodromal phase of psychotic illness. OC symptoms in this group may worsen during the course of the illness accompanied by functional deterioration.
2. In some patients, the OCS may resolve independent of the progression of psychotic illness.
3. The OCS or OCD may emerge or persist during course of the schizophrenic illness:
a. OCS may develop as a part of acute psychotic exacerbation of preoccupation, with or without ritualistic behaviors. The psychotic preoccupations or ruminations that emerge along with the acute phase of psychotic illness, may resolve
with overall improvement of psychosis.
b. OCS may develop or exacerbate after treatment with atypical antipsychotics that possess a potent antiserotonergic receptor profile. Recent reports found that such drugs may induce OC manifestations that respond to the anti-OC
pharmacologic regimen.