The Neuropathology of Schizophrenia

This book comprises 15 chapters on different aspects of the neuropathology of schizophrenia. After a review of the macroscopic findings in chapter 1, some specific aspects are reviewed in chapters 2 to 6, including hippocampal, cortical, and synaptic pathology as well as the question of gliosis and cerebral asymmetry. At the end of each chapter the published data are critically summarized and a future perspective is outlined. In chapters 7 to 12, additional aspects from imaging and other, related diseases are presented. Additionally, the knowledge on cortical development and the organization of cortical circuitry is summarized. The concluding chapters deal with methodological issues, the consequence of neuropathological findings for the treatment of schizophrenia, and a skeptical view of the neuropathology of schizophrenia in general.

Trying to place a value on this very well-conceptualized and well-written book, one has to know that since the first neuropathological study on schizophrenia in 1898 by Alois Alzheimer, only summary chapters have been written to bring together the published data on what is regarded as a very controversial area of schizophrenia research. The value of this book, however, is that it not only critically reviews our current knowledge concerning different aspects of the neuropathology of schizophrenia but also discusses details that are vital to put the data within the conceptual framework of the neurobiology of schizophrenia. In addition to looking at gliosis and neurodevelopment, the chapter authors present relevant literature on cortical development and animal models. Finally, having some chapters specifically dedicated to methodological aspects in this area adds another important perspective to this work.

In conclusion, this is a very comprehensive book covering all relevant areas of the neuropathology of schizophrenia as currently understood. It is not only very valuable to readers interested in the neuropathology of schizophrenia, but it is also an interesting, readable introduction to the neurobiology of this severe mental disorder.