Neurological Soft Signs in Schizophrenia: A Cross-sectional Study

CONTEXT: Soft neurological signs are present more frequently in schizophrenics than other patients suffering from other psychiatric illnesses and normal individuals. OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study is to find out the causal relationship of neurological soft signs (NSSs) to schizophrenia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study was initiated after taking approval of the institute ethics committee. A total of thirty schizophrenic patients and thirty controls were included in the study. Their diagnosis was confirmed by consultant and then were administered Neurological Evaluation Scale developed by Robert Buchanan. The accumulated data were then analyzed statistically. RESULTS: This study shows a higher prevalence of NSSs in schizophrenia as compared to controls. CONCLUSION: To ascertain their role in aetiogenesis and pathogenesis of schizophrenia, further research is needed.