[Cognitive remediation: a new approach for treating schizophrenia]

Two years ago, the "E. Minkowski" section of the "Département Universitaire de Psychiatrie Adulte" in Lausanne (DUPA) developed a cognitive remediation program for young schizophrenic patients. Preliminary results indicate a significant improvement in cognitive performance in most patients. Despite encouraging results, cognitive remediation therapies for patients with schizophrenia are rarely used in our country. The importance of cognitive deficits contrasts with the lack of resources engaged for their remediation. Some hypotheses are discussed for understanding why the treatment of cognitive deficits in schizophrenia has been delayed.