Cognitive Remediation in Schizophrenia: Effects on Brain Structure, Brain Function and Social Outcome.
Overview
- Phase
- N/A
- Intervention
- Not specified
- Conditions
- Schizophrenia
- Sponsor
- University of Dublin, Trinity College
- Enrollment
- 80
- Locations
- 1
- Primary Endpoint
- Change from baseline neuropsychological performance
- Last Updated
- 11 years ago
Overview
Brief Summary
The aim of this project is to undertake a randomized placebo controlled trial of cognitive remediation therapy (CRT) that focuses on working memory training in a sample of community based patients with chronic schizophrenia or other psychoses.
Cognitive deficits are a problem for many people with schizophrenia. This study will use computerized cognitive remediation training (which the participant can carry out at home) over a period of a few months.
Detailed Description
The aim of this project is to undertake a randomized placebo controlled trial of cognitive remediation therapy (CRT) that focuses on working memory training in a sample of community based patients with schizophrenia. Pre and Post neuropsychological assessment and Magnetic Resonance Imagery (MRI) will be used to determine the effects of CR training on 1. Neuropsychological performance 2. Brain Structure using voxel-based morphometry (VBM) 3. Brain function using functional MRI (fMRI) 4. Social and occupational functioning The cognitive remediation intervention is a computerised programme whose training level is dynamically varied to suit participants individual ability level. Motivation to learn and generalization to real world function are a particular focus of the intervention and are supported with ongoing therapist interaction in addition to personal training.
Investigators
Gary Donohoe
Associate Professor
University of Dublin, Trinity College
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria
- •Schizophrenia
- •History of Psychosis
- •Subjective difficulties with memory or concentration
- •Aged 18-60 Years
Exclusion Criteria
- •History of head injury resulting in loss of consciousness
- •Substance misuse in the last 3 months
Outcomes
Primary Outcomes
Change from baseline neuropsychological performance
Time Frame: Directly following study treatment period
A battery of neuropsychological tests will be used at baseline and the same tests used directly after the intervention to measure changes in attention and memory. Tests include Wechsler Adult intelligence scale-III, Wechsler Memory Scale-III, Stroop test, Wisconsin card sorting task and measures of spatial working memory.
Secondary Outcomes
- Change from baseline neuropsychological performance at 3 to 6 months post intervention(3 to 6 months post study treatment period)
- Changes from baseline in brain activation during working memory testing(Directly post study treatment period)
- Change from baseline in grey matter volume(Directly following study treatment period)