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Bedside cognitive assessments in Wilson's disease: Comparing cases and matched controls
Subhashini K Rangarajan1, Sebastian J X Sugadev2, Sharap Philip3
1Department of Clinical Neurosciences, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India.
Journal of Neurosciences in Rural Practice
|February 6, 2023
Summary
This study investigated neuropsychological deficits in Wilson's disease (WD) patients in India. Findings reveal significant differences in processing speed, executive function, attention, and memory compared to healthy individuals, aiding early diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neuropsychology
- Genetics
Background:
- Wilson's disease (WD) is an inherited disorder affecting copper metabolism.
- Prevalence data and neuropsychological profiles in Indian WD patients are scarce.
- Understanding these deficits is crucial for timely intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To profile neuropsychological differences in Indian patients with neurological Wilson's disease.
- To compare cognitive functions between WD patients and age/education-matched healthy controls.
- To establish a baseline for tracking cognitive changes in WD.
Main Methods:
- A hospital-based, cross-sectional, comparative study.
- Utilized a strategic combination of easily administered bedside neuropsychological tests.
- Included patients with confirmed neurological WD (Chu Stage 1 & 2) and matched controls.
Main Results:
- Statistically significant differences (P < 0.05) were observed between WD patients and controls.
- Deficits were most pronounced in processing speed and frontal executive functions.
- Impaired verbal and visual memory, and focused attention were also noted.
Conclusions:
- A rapid bedside neuropsychological test battery effectively differentiates WD patients from controls.
- This approach can facilitate early identification of cognitive impairments in WD.
- Early detection may lead to prompt therapy initiation and improved patient outcomes.
