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Pupillary Response as Assessment of Effective Seizure Induction by Electroconvulsive Therapy
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Long-term neurocognitive functioning after electroconvulsive therapy in patients with late-life depression
J Obbels1, E Verwijk2,3,4, K Vansteelandt1
1KU Leuven - University of Leuven, University Psychiatric Center KU Leuven, Academic Center for ECT and Neuromodulation (AcCENT), Kortenberg, Belgium.
Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica
|July 14, 2018
Summary
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) did not significantly impact cognition in older adults with late-life depression six months post-treatment. While most patients tolerated ECT well, individual cognitive differences were noted, warranting further research.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Geriatric Psychiatry
- Cognitive Psychology
Background:
- Concerns exist regarding electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) effects on neurocognitive functioning in elderly patients.
- Late-life depression is a significant concern in geriatric populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the long-term cognitive effects of ECT in older patients diagnosed with late-life depression.
- To characterize neurocognitive changes using a comprehensive neuropsychological assessment.
Main Methods:
- 110 patients aged 55+ with unipolar depression undergoing ECT were recruited.
- Neuropsychological testing was conducted before ECT and 6 months after the final session.
Main Results:
- No statistically significant group-level cognitive changes were observed from baseline to 6 months post-ECT.
- Individual cognitive performance variations were identified using the Reliable Change Index.
Conclusions:
- Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) does not appear to cause widespread negative cognitive effects in older adults with late-life depression 6 months after treatment.
- While most patients tolerate ECT well, with some experiencing cognitive enhancement, a small subset may experience side effects, necessitating further investigation into predictive factors.
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