Dynamics of cognitive impairments in FEP Patients (from manifestation to remission under treatment)

Context and relevance. Cognitive impairments accompany schizophrenia spectrum disorders and affective disorders at various stages of the disease.. This study examines the structure of cognitive impairments at the onset of schizophrenia spectrum disorders and affective disorders, as well as their dynamics from the acute phase to the establishment of remission following inpatient treatment. The identified changes in cognitive functioning may result both from the reduction of positive symptoms and from side effects of pharmacological treatment. Objective. To determine the structure of cognitive impairments during the first psychotic episode by comparing cognitive status from the onset of the disorder to the formation of remission after psychopharmacotherapy, for the subsequent justification of psychosocial rehabilitation interventions. Hypothesis. In the first psychotic episode, cognitive and regulatory mental functions demonstrate improvement after pharmacological treatment, while formal thought disorders persist despite therapy. Methods and materials. Clinical interview using PANSS for quantitative assessment of psychopathological symptoms; neuropsychological and pathopsychological diagnostic methods; nonparametric statistical methods, including comparative analysis (Wilcoxon T-test) and correlation analysis (Spearman’s R). Results. During the treatment of the first psychotic episode, positive changes occur in general cognitive functions (attention, memory) and executive control functions (verbal and motor control). Formal thought disorders remain after treatment. Conclusions. By the time remission is achieved after psychopharmacotherapy, positive changes in cognitive functioning are observed; however, formal thought disorders appear to be more stable constructs.

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