Laterality of cognitive dysfunction in schizophrenia: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: Clear localization (or) related deficits would make gateways for forming rehabilitation strategies much needed to enhance functionality in schizophrenia. We aimed to study the neuropsychological dysfunction including laterality in schizophrenia patients by using the native All India Institute of Medical Sciences Comprehensive Neuropsychological Battery (AIIMS CNB) in Hindi Adult form. Materials and Methods: In a cross-sectional study design, 40 right-handed schizophrenia patients in the age range of 18–59 years with primary education who can read and write were purposively recruited. Neuropsychological assessment and psychopathology were assessed by AIIMS CNB and Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), respectively. Raw scores and T-scores were recorded, and lateralization scores were calculated. The localization was estimated by commuting eight lobe scales. Statistical analyses of the quantitative scores were done using IBM SPSS 28. Results: The mean PANSS total scores and dose of chlorpromazine equivalents of the sample were 88.900 ± 9.940 and 497.500 ± 100.607 mg. 62.5% of the participants reportedly had the presence of brain dysfunction based on T-scores. Right hemispheric lateralization of cognitive deficits was present markedly in 95% of schizophrenia subjects. As per lobe scale scores, the right sensory-motor lobe (60%) and the right frontal lobe (27.5%) were found to be most dysfunctional. Conclusion: Majority of schizophrenia patients are dysfunctional as per AIIMS CNB and have hemispheric lateralization (right) of deficits. Our findings challenge the loss of asymmetry verdicts in schizophrenia.