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Schizophrenia
Hello Doctor. My sister had a psychotic episode earlier and was treated by a psychiatrist for about 9 months. The previous doctor had written F23 in the prescription. Recently we consulted another psychiatrist in a different location and, after reviewing the old prescriptions, he wrote F20. Currently she is mostly stable and has been taking medication for anxiety for the last few months. I would like to understand on what clinical basis F20 was written and whether this diagnosis is appropriate compared to the earlier F23 diagnosis. Could you please explain?
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I want to acknowledge how much courage it takes to voice these struggles. Often, we treat mental health as a matter of 'willpower,' but as a physician, I can tell you that what you are experiencing has a real biological and neurological basis.
Your brain, like any other organ, can sometimes struggle to maintain balance under stress. Seeking treatment isn't a sign of failure; it’s a proactive medical decision to regain your quality of life. We can work together to understand the 'why' behind these feelings and find a structured path back to your baseline. You don't have to navigate this alone.
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Hello
In Psychiatry, diagnosis depend on Psychiatrist perspective as what were the symptoms and patients behaviour present at the time of consultation makes the diagnosis and that tends to change hence change in diagnosis
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Hi.. Acute and transient psychotic disorder diagnosis can be changed to schizophrenia once the duration period is satisfied.
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Dr. Durganjali B
Psychiatrist
9 yrs exp
Mumbai
Hi. Changing from F23 to F20 is possible. F23 may have been the diagnosis that was made during her first consult. However based on persisting symptoms and change in the duration , it is possible to change the diagnosis to F20. Nonetheless both F23 and F20 may have similar symptoms but the duration and persistence of symptoms may be a cause for change in diagnosis.
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Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.