A three month prospective and four month retrospective study of "observation patients" admitted to Sterkfontein hospital for forensic evaluation. A comaparison of criminal charge with eventual a psychiatric diagnosis. The contribution of special investigations toward a diagnosis

Abstract

Ninety-one patients referred for observation were evaluated by means of a data sheet which covered demographic, forensic and psychiatric data, as well as special investigations performed during the admission period. A significant number of patients (P = 0,005) involved in crimes of theft were found to be psychotic. A significant number of patients (P = 0,(24) involved in murder/attempted murder/culpable homicide were found to be apsychotic. None of the special investigations had a significant bearing on the diagnosis or legal destiny of the patient. it is clear that we should have a high index of suspicion towards psychosis in those patients who were allegedly involved in crimes against property and in particular crimes of theft. Special investigations should only be performed where there is a clear clinical indication. This approach wiII save considerable time and money without compromising the assessment.