Cognitive functioning in depression period of bipolar disorder

Abstract

Aim of the studyStudy aims were to compare neuropsychological functioning of depressed bipolar patients and healthy controls and to estimate relationship between cognitive functions and depressive symptoms.Subject or material and methodsCognitive functions were examined in 30 depressed bipolar patients aged 18-68 (M=45,6; 18 women and 12 men) who fulfilled ICD-10 criteria for depressive episode (Hamilton Depression Rating Scale score ≥ 11). The comparison group consisted of 30 healthy subjects aged 23-71 (M=46,2; 20 women and 10 men) matched in aged, years of education and gender to bipolar group. A neuropsychological battery assessed executive functions and working memory.ResultsThe bipolar patients in depression reviled neuropsychological deficits in working memory and some aspects of executive functions in comparison to healthy group. Only in WCST test both groups received similar results. Neuropsychological functioning seems to be independent of the severity of depressive symptoms.DiscussionDifferent aspects of working memory and executive functions are impaired in depression period of bipolar disorder and they seem independent of the severity of depressive symptoms. These results are consistent with previous reports.ConclusionsIn patients with bipolar depression cognitive assessment should be taken into account in the diagnosis and the disturbances in executive functions and working memory should be treated with neuropsychological rehabilitation and / or pharmacotherapy.