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Schizophrenia is a psychical disorder
with abnormality in social behavior and failure to understand what
is real. Despite considerable efforts that have been made from a lot
of researchers, there are still delays in the diagnosis and
treatment of schizophrenia. Therefore, this study has been focused
to investigate the expected association between the levels of
antioxidant agents (Vitamin E, Vitamin A, glutathione [GSH], and
uric acid) and the risk of schizophrenia. Levels of these variables
were determined in sera of 60 patients with schizophrenia, and then,
the variations in their levels were analyzed in comparison with 60
healthy volunteers to try to predict of occurrence and progression
of disease. The results obtained showed a significant decrease in
the levels of Vitamin E, GSH, uric acid, and urea, in contrast to
non-significant change in the levels of Vitamin A in schizophrenic
patients compared to the healthy group. Data analysis also revealed
the presence of a valuable correlation between most of variables in
schizophrenic patients. Accordingly, it can be suggested that these
variables may have a vital role and prognostic value against
schizophrenia. Furthermore, it can be suggested that vitamin
supplementation, in particular Vitamin E, may play a crucial role in
the treatment of schizophrenia or reduce the risk of schizophrenia.
The real mechanism responsible for the variations in the levels of
these parameters in patients with schizophrenia is unclear and
requires additional evaluation by further comprehensive studies. |
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Key words:
Schizophrenia, Antioxidants, Vitamin E, Vitamin A, Glutathione, Uric
acid. |
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