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Adjunctive multi-session transcranial direct current stimulation for neurocognitive dysfunction in schizophrenia: A
Chen-Hui Sun1, Wen-Long Jiang2, Dong-Bin Cai3
1Qingdao Mental Health Center, Qingdao University, Shandong, China.
Asian Journal of Psychiatry
|November 5, 2021
Summary
Multi-session transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) shows promise as an adjunctive treatment for schizophrenia. This therapy significantly improved working memory deficits in patients, offering a potential new avenue for cognitive rehabilitation.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Medical Technology
Background:
- Neurocognitive dysfunction is a core feature of schizophrenia.
- Existing treatments for schizophrenia have limited efficacy in addressing cognitive deficits.
- Multi-session transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has been explored as an adjunctive therapy with inconsistent findings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically evaluate the neurocognitive effects of adjunctive multi-session tDCS in patients with schizophrenia.
- To synthesize findings from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to determine the efficacy of tDCS for cognitive deficits in schizophrenia.
Main Methods:
- A meta-analysis of twelve RCTs involving 418 schizophrenia patients.
- Data were analyzed using RevMan software (Version 5.3).
- Risk ratios (RRs) and standardized mean differences (SMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated.
Main Results:
- Adjunctive tDCS significantly improved working memory deficits (SMD = 0.34, 95% CI: 0.03, 0.65).
- No significant effects were observed in other cognitive domains.
- No significant differences were found in total psychopathology or study discontinuation rates.
Conclusions:
- Multi-session tDCS demonstrates a significant therapeutic effect in improving working memory deficits in schizophrenia.
- tDCS may serve as a valuable adjunctive treatment for cognitive enhancement in schizophrenia patients.
- Further research may explore optimizing tDCS protocols for broader cognitive benefits.
