Memory and executive functions in patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Sanne Kjær Vandborg1, Tue Borst Hartmann, Birgit Egedal Bennedsen
1*Clinic for OCD and Anxiety Disorders †Center for Psychiatric Research §Regional Center for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Aarhus University Hospital Risskov, Risskov, Denmark ‡Vejlefjord Rehabilitation, Stouby, Denmark.
Summary
Patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) show deficits in visuospatial memory and organizational skills compared to healthy individuals. These cognitive impairments may impact treatment strategies for OCD.
Area of Science:
- Neuropsychology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Previous research on cognitive function in obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) yields inconsistent results.
- Inconsistencies may stem from poorly matched control groups, comorbid conditions, and varied neuropsychological testing methods.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate memory and executive function differences between patients with OCD and healthy controls.
- To address limitations of prior studies by using well-matched groups and standardized tests.
Main Methods:
- Assessed 42 patients with OCD (no comorbidity) and 42 healthy controls using established neuropsychological tests.
- Matched patients and controls on sex, age, and education level.
Main Results:
- Patients with OCD performed significantly worse on the Rey Complex Figure Test, indicating impaired visuospatial memory and organizational skills.
- These deficits persisted even after controlling for age, education, intelligence, and depressive symptoms.
Conclusions:
- Individuals with OCD exhibit impaired visuospatial memory and organizational abilities.
- These cognitive impairments are relevant considerations for developing effective OCD treatment plans.
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