Author:
Luo Ruiqing,Fan Ningdan,Dou Yikai,Wang Yu,Wang Min,Yang Xiao,Ma Xiaohong
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Few studies have focused on functional impairment in depressed patients during symptomatic remission. The exact relationship between cognitive performance and functional outcomes of patients with Major depressive disorder (MDD) remains unclear.
Methods
Participants diagnosed with MDD were included and interviewed at both baseline and follow-up. Cognitive function was assessed during acute episodes using the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB), which targeted attention (Rapid Visual Processing - RVP), visual memory (Pattern Recognition Memory - PRM), and executive function (Intra-Extra Dimensional Set Shift - IED). The 17-item Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD) was used for symptom assessment. Participants were divided into two groups based on their SDSS (Social Disability Screening Schedule) scores, and the differences between their demographic information, HAMD scores, and baseline CANTAB test results were compared. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify cognitive predictors of social function during symptomatic remission.
Results
According to the SDSS score at follow-up, 103 patients were divided into the normal social function group (n = 81,78.6%) and the poor social function group (n = 22, 21.4%) during clinical remission. Participants with poorer social function performed worse in the visual memory (PRM) and executive function tests (IED) at the baseline. Logistic regression analysis suggested that performance on the PRM (95%CI = 0.31–0.93, p = 0.030) and IED (95%CI = 1.01–1.13, p = 0.014) tests, instead of less severe symptoms, significantly contributed to functional outcomes.
Conclusion
Better performance in visual memory and executive function during acute episodes may predict better social functional outcomes in individuals with MDD. A potential early intervention to improve social function in individuals with MDD could include the treatments for executive function and visual memory.
Funder
China Postdoctoral Science Foundation
the National Natural Science Foundation of China
the Ministry of Science and Technology of the People’s Republic of China
Sichuan University
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC