The psychopathological phenotype of velo-cardio-facial syndrome

Velo-cardio-facial syndrome (VCFS) is mostly associated with deletions of chromosome 22q11, and is thought to be characterized by an increased frequency of major psychiatric disorders. Sixteen patientsadults with VCFS and psychiatric symptoms were evaluated using a semi-structured investigation of history, symptoms, signs and behaviour. All available data were used in consensus meetings to obtain a classifiable diagnostic category. In contrast to other reports, no categorical diagnosis could be established. Instead, a quite specific psychological, behavioural and psychopathological constellation emerged that should most adequately be denominated as a VCFS-psychiatric syndrome. It is concluded that VCFS is associated with a specific psychopathological syndrome. (C) 2002 Editions scientifiques et medicales Elsevier SAS. All rights reserved.