The Cognitive Deficit subscale of the SCL-90-R and prediction of outcome in first episode schizophrenics

This study examined the relationship between the Cognitive Deficit scale and psychiatric outcome in a sample of 31 first episode schizophrenics. These patients initially were evaluated during their inpatient hospitalization and thereafter assessed for psychiatric symptomatology at 3-, 6-, and 12-month intervals. At the end of 12 months, 51.6% of the sample were in remission, and 48.4% either remained in their psychotic episode during the follow-up period or relapsed. However, the two Cognitive Deficit scores obtained at baseline showed no relationship with subsequent outcome of psychiatric illness. It is suggested that this scale may not be sensitive enough to be used as a diagnostic tool with this group of patients.