The cognitive functioning of 62 schizophrenic subjects was compared with
that of 42 normal controls using neuropsychological tasks that included
assessment of soft neurological signs, an aphasia screening test,
tachistoscopic stimulation, auditory threshold determinations, and items
from the Mini-Mental State, Halstead-Reitan, and Luria- Nebraska batteries.
Performance was rated blindly for hemispheric, regional cortical, and
global impairment. No control showed more than a mild deficit, whereas
three-quarters of the schizophrenic patients exhibited moderate to severe
dysfunction. Schizophrenic subjects differed significantly from controls on
all measures and showed bilateral impairment that was comparatively worse
in the dominant frontotemporal regions. These differences were not a
function of age, sex, handedness, or drug administration.Abstract Teaser