Neurocognitive assessment of ultra high risk of psychosis states using the MATRICS battery (Measurement and Treatment Research to Improve Cognition in Schizophrenia)

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Several neuropsychological deficits have been detected in subjects at ultra high risk of developing psychosis, but the best neuropsychological instruments to detect these deficits are yet to be determined. OBJECTIVES: Assess neuropsychological profile of subjects at ultra high risk of psychosis (UHRP) using MATRICS battery (Measurement and Treatment Research to Improve Cognition in Schizophrenia) compared with age, gender and Intelligence Quotient matched controls. METHOD: Neuropsychological functioning was measured in 27 UHRP patients and 38 controls using MATRICS battery. UHRP was diagnosed using the Cognitive Assessment of at Risk Mental States (CAARMS) scale, and both social and global functioning was assessed as well. Comparisons between groups were established using ANOVA, ANCOVA and Pearson correlation. RESULTS: UHRP subjects scored 0.5 to 1.7 SD below controls in working memory, verbal and visual learning and social cognition. DISCUSSION: UHRP subjects exhibit selective deficits in neuro-cognitive functioning when compared with controls, which can be detected with MATRICS. This instrument seems to be helpful for early detection of UHRP states.