[Changes in cognitive functions after sleep deprivation as a prognostic indicator of drug therapy of endogenous...

Studies performed on a group of 27 patients with endogenous depression demonstrated that changes of cognitive functions following sleep deprivation may reveal a prognostic potential for results of pharmacological treatment of depression. Worsening of memory following sleep deprivation was more frequently observed in a subgroup of nonresponders. Greater improvement of concentration and increased task mobilization were noticed in a subgroup which positively responded to the antidepressant treatment. Patient's age, sex, self-rating of depression intensity or baseline level of ability to memorize, to concentrate attention, to perform tasks did not exhibit any predictive value.