Unveiling the Role of the Globus Pallidus in Schizophrenia: A Case Report and Neuroimaging Study

Schizophrenia is a complex psychiatric disorder characterized by anomalies in thought, perception, and behavior. Despite advancements in pharmaceutical treatments, managing the disorder remains challenging. Recent research has focused on understanding its biological basis, with particular attention to subcortical structures like the basal ganglia and thalamus, including the globus pallidus. Anomalies in the globus pallidus have been associated with various neurological and psychiatric conditions, showcasing its importance in schizophrenia. However, studies specifically examining abnormalities within the globus pallidus in schizophrenia are limited. In this case report we present the case of a 22-year-old male, Mr. A, diagnosed with schizophrenia. Mr. A exhibited auditory hallucinations, paranoid delusions, and disorganized behavior. Neurological examinations and laboratory tests ruled out underlying medical causes, prompting further investigation with neuroimaging studies. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed bilateral and symmetrical signal anomalies in the posterior part of the globus pallidus, consistent with previous research implicating the basal ganglia in schizophrenia.