Executive dysfunction and neurological soft signs in patients with schizophrenia and bipolar affective disorder: A descriptive cross-sectional research

Objectives Executive dysfunction and neurological soft signs (NSS) are common features observed in individuals with psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia and bipolar affective disorder (BPAD). These impairments have significant implications for the functional capacity and quality of life of affected individuals. However, limited research has been conducted on the prevalence of executive dysfunction and NSS in patients with these disorders in the specific context of South India. This study aimed to find the prevalence of executive dysfunctions and NSS in patients with schizophrenia and BPAD. Material and Methods This cross-sectional study examined remission characteristics in 40 schizophrenic and 40 bipolar patients using DCR-10 (ICD-10’s criteria for research) in 2015, Kerala, India. Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS), Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE), Trail Making Test (TMT), Stroop Test (ST), Controlled Oral Word Association Test, Heidelberg manual, PANSS (Positive and Negative Symptoms Scale) applied to Psychiatric evaluations and cognitive assessments. The study sheds light on remission profiles in BPAD and schizophrenia. Results Executive dysfunction, defined by abnormal values on the Stroop test (ST), Controlled Oral Word Association Test, and TMT (Trail Making Test), was observed in 20 out of the 40 schizophrenic subjects, representing a prevalence rate of 50%. Additionally, 14 individuals (35%) among the same group exhibited neurological soft signs. Among the bipolar patients, 9 individuals (22.5%) displayed neurological soft signs, while 12 patients (30%) demonstrated executive dysfunction. These findings highlight the presence of executive dysfunction and neurological soft signs in a significant proportion of the studied schizophrenia and bipolar patients. Conclusion This study found a significant prevalence of executive dysfunction and neurological soft signs in both schizophrenia and bipolar patients. Further research and interventions targeting executive functioning and neurological manifestations could potentially contribute to improved outcomes and quality of life for these patients.