Relation of Verbal Memory Dysfunction with Type and Severity of Psychiatric Symptoms in Schizophrenic Patients

Abstract

Background: Cognitive dysfunction, especially memory impairment is common in schizophrenia. Objectives: According to impact of memory problems on everyday life of schizophrenic patients, this research intended to assess the relationship between memory and behavioral signs of these patients for better therapeutic decision. Methods: In this cross sectional study, seventy one schizophrenic patients admitted at Razi psychiatric hospital (Tehran, Iran) from July to December 2015, were included. Verbal memory was analyzed by Persian translated Wechsler memory subtests (WMS-III) of paired associates, recognition and numerical memory. Positive and negative symptoms scale (PANSS) for schizophrenia is used for evaluation of psychiatric symptoms. Data were analyzed with a statistical software program (SPSS 20). Results: Word association memory has a significant correlation with negative signs, positive signs, excitement, anxiety and depression (P < 0.05). Also, numerical memory has an inverse correlation with disease duration. Regarding to sex differences, word association memory has a significant correlation with positive signs, anxiety and depression in male patients but in women, only excitement showed positive correlation with word matching memory (P < 0.05). Conclusions: There is significant relation between verbal memory dysfunction and type and severity of psychological symptoms of schizophrenia patients. So, routine evaluation and treatment of these cognitive impairments should be considered as a part of comprehensive schizophrenia therapeutic approach.