5-Hydroxyindoleacetic Acid in Cerebrospinal Fluid and Prediction of Suicidal Behaviour in Schizophrenia

In this study, CSF 5-HIAA taken from 30 schizophrenic patients in a drug-free state was measured. These patients were followed for 11 years. 10 patients made suicide attempts during follow-up. Suicide attempters had significantly lower concentrations of CSF 5-HIAA at initial evaluation. Findings provide further evidence of the relation between serotoninergic dysfunction & suicide, & suggest a role for drugs with serotoninergic effects in schizophrenia. (10 refs.)