Negative Symptoms in Schizophrenia – Clinical Features, Differential Diagnostic Markers, Etiopathogenic Mechanisms, and Functional Impact

The negative symptoms of schizophrenia have historically been considered a category of clinical signs that, despite being recognized, were largely ignored from a therapeutic perspective until recent decades. Although a paradigm shift has occurred and negative symptoms are now acknowledged as the main cause of impaired functioning in patients with schizophrenia, scientific advancements have not yet provided a viable solution for their complete eradication. Moreover, studies indicate that negative symptomatology is polymorphic and multidimensional, comprising primary, secondary, and premorbid symptoms. Proper recognition and classification of these symptoms appear to be a relevant pathway for both prevention and the effective management of these clinical signs, which hinder the progression of schizophrenia. This paper is structured as a synthesis of current specialized literature, addressing clinical characteristics, differential diagnosis, and preventive strategies related to the negative symptoms of schizophrenia.