IntroductionSingle-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) is a valid method for measuring regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF). Recent studies regarding rCBF in patients with first episode psychosis (FEP) reported heterogeneous results, but were limited with small sample size. Neuroimaging can help us in setting the diagnosis of illness, as well as in following the progress and finding more effective treatment for psychotic disorders.ObjectivesTo compare, baseline alterations of the rCBF using SPECT with psychopathological status in FEP during acute phase.AimsTo investigate the changes of rCBF in patients with FEP during acute phase.MethodsWe conducted a study on 40 drug – naïve patients with FEP at acute phase of illness during their hospitalization at Zagreb University hospital centre. The diagnosis was confirmed using diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders, fifth edition. rCBF was measured with SPECT and psychopathological status rated with the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale.ResultsOur findings showed moderate to severe parieto-temporal perfusion deficits, mild to moderate parieto-fronto-temporal perfusion deficits or borderline perfusion deficits in all but one patient.ConclusionOur results showed alteration in rCBF at the beginning of the illness that indicate a biological market of psychotic disorder.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.

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Background and Aims:Rehabilitation should help the mentally ill persons to strength their potentials and reduce the deficits in order to live successfully in community. First Croatian Outpatient Rehabilitation Center is organized in Psychiatric Hospital Vrapce. Its goal is to improve the quality of life in patients with psychotic disorders through a holistic rehabilitation program. The Rehabilitation Centre offers program provided by Multi-disciplinary team. Team evaluates each patient on individual bases and develops a realistic treatment/rehabilitation plan. The key of treatment is combination of case management and group treatment. Rehabilitation program includes a supportive individual therapy, provided by the coordinator and different group therapy (psychoeducation, anti-stigma program, family education, healthy life styles, social skill training, stress cooping and vocational training) and creative groups.Methods:40 patients were evaluated in program in our Center according to frequency of visits and rehospitalisation. Also we followed up the family involvement, the number and types of groups which patients attend and contacts with case manager. The obtained data will be compared with BPRS score and the Satisfactory scale results.Results:It was evident that patients, who regularly contact their case managers, attend to more than one group and have family support, have the treatment better results on Satisfactory scale and BPRS score.Conclusion:Community Rehabilitation Center offers highly individualized program which combines case management and group therapy in order to help patients with psychotic disorders to recover and live with higher quality standards in community and its long lasting benefits are expected in future.

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