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Significantly improved neurocognitive function in major depressive disorders 6 weeks after ECT.
Christine Mohn1, Bjørn Rishovd Rund2
1Research Department, Vestre Viken Hospital Trust, Drammen, Norway.
Journal of Affective Disorders
|June 3, 2016
Summary
Electroconvulsive treatment (ECT) improved processing speed, attention, and visual learning in depression patients. Cognitive test scores related to depression severity, not subjective memory complaints.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Cognitive Psychology
Background:
- Electroconvulsive treatment (ECT) is used for depressive disorders.
- Cognitive side effects are a concern after ECT.
- Previous studies had limited cognitive assessments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To prospectively monitor cognitive effects of ECT.
- To use a comprehensive neuropsychological test battery.
- To assess subjective cognitive function.
Main Methods:
- 31 major depressive disorder patients assessed pre- and post-ECT.
- Used MATRICS Consensus Cognitive Battery (MCCB) for cognitive function.
- Used Everyday Memory Questionnaire (EMQ) for subjective complaints.
- Assessed depression severity with Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS).
Main Results:
- Significant improvements in Speed of Processing, Attention/Vigilance, and Visual Learning 6 weeks after ECT.
- Depression severity was reduced by nearly half.
- No significant change in subjective cognitive complaints.
- Cognitive test scores correlated with depression severity.
Conclusions:
- ECT improved specific cognitive domains: processing speed, attention, and visual learning.
- Cognitive function improvements were linked to reduced depression severity.
- Subjective memory complaints did not correlate with objective cognitive changes.
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