Childhood-Onset Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders (COS) are rare, severe psychiatric conditions diagnosed before age 13, characterized by hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, and impaired functioning. They mirror adult schizophrenia but present earlier, complicating development, education, and socialization.
Key Points
1. Definition and Rarity
Childhood-Onset Schizophrenia (COS): Schizophrenia diagnosed before age