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[Working memory and executive functions in hyperthyroid patients with Graves' disease].
Karolina Jabłkowska1, Małgorzata Karbownik-Lewińska, Katarzyna Nowakowska
1Zakład Psychologii Lekarskiej UM w Łodzi.
Psychiatria Polska
|August 25, 2009
Summary
Graves' disease patients show impaired working memory and executive functions compared to healthy individuals. Depression symptoms are common and linked to cognitive deficits in these patients.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Endocrinology
- Psychiatry
Context:
- Graves' disease is an autoimmune disorder leading to hyperthyroidism.
- Hyperthyroidism can affect cognitive functions and mental health.
- Neuropsychological deficits and depressive symptoms are potential complications.
Purpose:
- To evaluate working memory and executive functions in hyperthyroid patients with Graves' disease.
- To assess the prevalence and intensity of depressive symptoms in this patient group.
- To compare cognitive function and depression levels with healthy controls.
Summary:
- Patients with Graves' disease exhibited significant deficits in working memory and executive functions compared to healthy controls.
- Wisconsin Card Sorting Test and N-back test revealed cognitive impairments.
- Beck Depression Inventory showed a high prevalence of depression symptoms, correlating with cognitive dysfunction.
Impact:
- Findings highlight the cognitive burden of Graves' disease, affecting daily functioning.
- Early identification and management of cognitive deficits and depression are crucial.
- Longer disease duration and lower educational attainment predict poorer neuropsychological outcomes.
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