METABOLIC SYNDROME IN PATIENTS WITH SCHIZOAFFECTIVE DISORDER AND RELATIONSHIP WITH THE ANTIPSYCHOTICS

Introduction: Metabolic syndrome is highly prevalent in patients with schizophrenia. The use of atypical antipsychotics also increases the risk of metabolic syndrome. This study aimed to evaluate the association between schizoaffective disorder and risk of incident metabolic syndrome and the relationship with the drugs used. Materials and methods: This cross-sectional study included patients diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder. The study group consisted of 77 outpatients aged 18 to 65 years, prescribed any antipsychotic medication between September 2013 and August 2014. Metabolic syndrome was defined using the criteria of the National Cholesterol Education Program - Adult Treatment Protocol and the National Cholesterol Education Program - Adapted Adult Treatment Protocol. Results: Metabolic syndrome was found in 33.8% according to National Cholesterol Education Program - Adult Treatment Protocol diagnostic criteria, 36.4% according to National Cholesterol Education Program - Adapted Adult Treatment Protocol diagnostic criteria of the patients. When we grouped patients treated with typical antipsychotic, atypical antipsychotics and typical & atypical antipsychotics in combination, there was no significant difference for prevalence of metabolic syndrome among any groups. Metabolic syndrome prevalence was significantly higher in study subjects using antidepressants in combination with antipsychotics. Conclusions: The results suggest that metabolic syndrome risk is common among patients with schizoaffective disorder. Our data shows that systemic inflammation plays a key role in both schizoaffective disorder and metabolic syndrome so chronic comorbid disorders should be treated concurrently and all risk factors like that weight loss, regular physical activity, smoking cessation should be eliminated by modifying life style.