Australian researchers working on first biological test for schizophrenia

0 Comments | AFP, August, 2005

SYDNEY (AFP) — Australian researchers reported progress in efforts to develop the first biological test to diagnose people suffering from schizophrenia.

The scientists at the University of New South Wales in Sydney said their research indicated that a test analysing the way people process sounds could permit far earlier diagnosis and treatment of schizophrenia.

Psychiatrists currently rely on interviewing and observing patients in order to diagnose schizophrenia, a sometimes lengthy process that can delay treatment.

But one of the Australian researchers, associate professor of psychiatry Phillip Ward, said the new test could speed up the process significantly.

"There's now a lot of research evidence that suggests that if one can make a diagnosis...