Schizophrenia Detection and Classification: A Systematic Review of the Last Decade

Background/Objectives: Artificial Intelligence (AI) in healthcare employs advanced algorithms to analyze complex and large-scale datasets, mimicking aspects of human cognition. By automating decision-making processes based on predefined thresholds, AI enhances the accuracy and reliability of healthcare data analysis, reducing the need for human intervention. Schizophrenia (SZ), a chronic mental health disorder affecting millions globally, is characterized by symptoms such as auditory hallucinations, paranoia, and disruptions in thought, behavior, and perception. The SZ symptoms can significantly impair daily functioning, underscoring the need for advanced diagnostic tools. Methods: This systematic review has been conducted following the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) 2020 guidelines and examines peer-reviewed studies from the last decade (2015–2024) on AI applications in SZ detection as well as classification. The review protocol has been registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) under registration number: CRD42024612364. Research has been sourced from multiple databases and screened using predefined inclusion criteria. The review evaluates the use of both Machine Learning (ML) and Deep Learning (DL) methods across multiple modalities, including Electroencephalography (EEG), Structural Magnetic Resonance Imaging (sMRI), and Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI). The key aspects reviewed include datasets, preprocessing techniques, and AI models. Results: The review identifies significant advancements in AI methods for SZ diagnosis, particularly in the efficacy of ML and DL models for feature extraction, classification, and multi-modal data integration. It highlights state-of-the-art AI techniques and synthesizes insights into their potential to improve diagnostic outcomes. Additionally, the analysis underscores common challenges, including dataset limitations, variability in preprocessing approaches, and the need for more interpretable models. Conclusions: This study provides a comprehensive evaluation of AI-based methods in SZ prognosis, emphasizing the strengths and limitations of current approaches. By identifying unresolved gaps, it offers valuable directions for future research in the application of AI for SZ detection and diagnosis.