Minor Physical Abnormalities in adolescent sample

Minor physical abnormalities (MPA) are subtle dysmorphic features associated with no or
little functional consequences. Most MPA develop during the first gestational trimester and
are believed to be valuable indices of neuroectodermal disturbances emerging during early
brain development. Higher prevalence of MPA in schizophrenia patients and their relatives
was confirmed. These findings are is in line with neurodevelopmental schizophrenia
hypothesis. Recently neurodevelopmental etiological component was also proposed for
anorexia nervosa. Aim of the current study was assessment of MPA prevalence in adolescent
inpatients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSD) and anorexia nervosa (AN) in
comparison to healthy controls (HC). MPA were assessed with Waldrop MPA Scale. In both
patients groups mean MPA total score as well as mean head subscore was significantly higher
than in healthy controls. No statistically significant differences between SSD and AN groups
was observed. In all three groups most common abnormalities included large gap between
first and second toe and low-seated ears. The MPA profile was similar in all three groups.
These results are confirm both schizophrenia and anorexia neurodevelopmental hypotheses
and may also be considered consistent with psychosis continuum concept. Associations
between delusional anorexia subtype and schizophrenia may also be discussed. Nevertheless
the results should not be overgeneralized and further studies, including other subgroups of
SSD and AN patients are warranted.