Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a new technique capable of stimulating the brain through a painless, non-invasive and simple method. Its use in patients with schizophrenia has been the target of some studies. This article reviews these studies. Initially a brief discussion is offered about phisiopathologic basis that could explain its efficacy and its possible mechanism of action. The first open studies are analysed and, at last, studies about effects on positive and negative symptoms and catatonia are discussed. Research in this field is growing, although the use of TMS is in its beginning and it is early to draw any conclusions about its practical use on daily practice.
Achizophrenia; treatment; magnetic stimulation