psychosis

psychosis A thought disorder in which perception of reality is grossly impaired. Symptoms can include seeing, hearing, smelling, or tasting things that are not there; paranoia; and delusional thoughts. Depending on the condition underlying the psychotic symptoms, symptoms may be constant or they may come and go. Psychosis can occur as a result of brain injury or disease, and it is seen particularly in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Psychotic symptoms can occur as a result of drug use, but that is not true psychosis. Diagnosis is made via observation and interview. Treatment involves use of medication such as risperidone (brand name: Risperdal) or haloperidol (brand name: Haldol).