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Sigström R, Göteson A, Joas E, Pålsson E, Liberg B, Nordenskjöld A, Blennow K, Zetterberg H, Landén M. Blood biomarkers of neuronal injury and astrocytic reactivity in electroconvulsive therapy. Mol Psychiatry 2024:10.1038/s41380-024-02774-4. [PMID: 39363047 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-024-02774-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 09/24/2024] [Accepted: 09/26/2024] [Indexed: 10/05/2024]
Abstract
Despite electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) being recognized as an effective treatment for major depressive episodes (MDE), its application is subject to controversy due to concerns over cognitive side effects. The pathophysiology of these side effects is not well understood. Here, we examined the effects of ECT on blood-based biomarkers of neuronal injury and astrocytic reactivity. Participants with a major depressive episode (N = 99) underwent acute ECT. Blood was sampled just before (T0) and 30 min after (T1) the first ECT session, as well as just before the sixth session (T2; 48-72 h after the fifth session). Age- and sex-matched controls (N = 99) were recruited from the general population. Serum concentrations of neurofilament light chain (NfL), total tau protein, and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) were measured with ultrasensitive single-molecule array assays. Utilizing generalized least squares regression, we compared baseline (T0) biomarker concentrations against those of our control group, and calculated the shifts in serum biomarker concentrations from baseline to immediately post-first ECT session (T1), and prior to the sixth session (T2). Baseline analysis revealed that serum levels of NfL (p < 0.001) and tau (p = 0.036) were significantly elevated in ECT recipients compared with controls, whereas GFAP levels showed no significant difference. Relative to T0, serum NfL concentration neither changed at T1 (mean change 3.1%, 95%CI -0.5% to 6.7%, p = 0.088) nor at T2 (mean change -3.2%, 95%CI -7.6% to 1.5%, p = 0.18). Similarly, no change in total tau was observed (mean change 3.7%, 95%CI -11.6% to 21.7%, p = 0.65). GFAP increased from T0 to T1 (mean change 20.3%, 95%CI 14.6 to 26.3%, p < 0.001), but not from T0 to T2 (mean change -0.7%, 95%CI -5.8% to 4.8%, p = 0.82). In conclusion, our findings suggest that ECT induces a temporary increase in serum GFAP, possibly reflecting transient astrocytic activation. Importantly, we observed no indicators of neuronal damage or long-term elevation in any assessed biomarker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Sigström
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.
- Department of Affective Disorders, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden.
| | - Andreas Göteson
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Erik Joas
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Erik Pålsson
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Benny Liberg
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Axel Nordenskjöld
- University Health Care Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Kaj Blennow
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Clinical Neurochemistry Laboratory, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Henrik Zetterberg
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Clinical Neurochemistry Laboratory, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, UCL Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, UK
- UK Dementia Research Institute at UCL, London, UK
- Hong Kong Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong, China
- Wisconsin Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Mikael Landén
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Lanni I, Chiacchierini G, Papagno C, Santangelo V, Campolongo P. Treating Alzheimer's disease with brain stimulation: From preclinical models to non-invasive stimulation in humans. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 165:105831. [PMID: 39074672 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2024] [Revised: 07/20/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a severe and progressive neurodegenerative condition that exerts detrimental effects on brain function. As of now, there is no effective treatment for AD patients. This review explores two distinct avenues of research. The first revolves around the use of animal studies and preclinical models to gain insights into AD's underlying mechanisms and potential treatment strategies. Specifically, it delves into the effectiveness of interventions such as Optogenetics and Chemogenetics, shedding light on their implications for understanding pathophysiological mechanisms and potential therapeutic applications. The second avenue focuses on non-invasive brain stimulation (NiBS) techniques in the context of AD. Evidence suggests that NiBS can successfully modulate cognitive functions associated with various neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders, including AD, as demonstrated by promising findings. Here, we critically assessed recent findings in AD research belonging to these lines of research and discuss their potential impact on the clinical horizon of AD treatment. These multifaceted approaches offer hope for advancing our comprehension of AD pathology and developing novel therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilenia Lanni
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy; Behavioral Neuropharmacology Unit, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Chiacchierini
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy; Behavioral Neuropharmacology Unit, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Costanza Papagno
- Center for Mind/Brain Sciences (CIMeC), University of Trento, Rovereto, Italy
| | - Valerio Santangelo
- Functional Neuroimaging Laboratory, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy; Department of Philosophy, Social Sciences & Education, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Patrizia Campolongo
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy; Behavioral Neuropharmacology Unit, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy.
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3
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Rummel L, Göke K, Philipsen A, Hurlemann R, Kiebs M. Role of stimulus dose on neuropsychological functioning after electroconvulsive therapy in patients with major depressive disorder. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1443270. [PMID: 39398962 PMCID: PMC11467992 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1443270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 09/09/2024] [Indexed: 10/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is the most effective treatment for patients suffering from treatment-resistant depression but its use is often limited by the concern for cognitive side effects. This study examines the effect of ECT on autobiographical and verbal memory compared to a healthy control group and the impact of the mean stimulus dose on cognition after ECT. Methods Autobiographical and verbal memory were assessed in depressed patients and healthy controls before the first and within one week after the last ECT treatment. Neuropsychological testing included the Autobiographical Memory Interview, the Verbal Learning and Memory Test and five tests from the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery. The mean charge delivered across the ECT series and the total number of sessions were examined in relationship to cognitive impairment after ECT using a multiple regression model. Results Autobiographical memory was significantly impaired after ECT treatment compared to healthy controls. Baseline scores were lower for depressed patients on all cognitive domains. Improvements in performance after ECT were found on tests for executive functions and working memory. Effects of the mean charge delivered on cognitive functioning after ECT were heterogeneous across cognitive domains but significant for verbal retrograde memory. Conclusion ECT led to autobiographical memory impairment. The relationship between mean charge delivered and cognitive performance is heterogeneous across different cognitive domains and requires further research. Significant effects of the mean charge delivered were found without a significant difference in cognitive functioning compared to a healthy control group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lea Rummel
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, School of Medicine & Health Sciences, University Hospital Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Katharina Göke
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Alexandra Philipsen
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - René Hurlemann
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, School of Medicine & Health Sciences, University Hospital Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Maximilian Kiebs
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, School of Medicine & Health Sciences, University Hospital Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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Stojanović Z, Simić K, Tepšić Ostojić V, Gojković Z, Petković-Ćurčin A. Electroconvulsive therapy in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Review). Biomed Rep 2024; 21:129. [PMID: 39070111 PMCID: PMC11273193 DOI: 10.3892/br.2024.1817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024] Open
Abstract
There are very few treatments in psychiatry, even in medicine, that have experienced longevity and effectiveness such as electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), despite the controversies and stigma that accompany it. The experience of the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need to strengthen mental health systems in most countries, given that depression is one of the leading health problems and that there is an evident shortage of psychiatrists worldwide. The Fourth Industrial Revolution, has witnessed great progress in artificial intelligence (AI) technology, which opens up the possibility of its application both in the diagnosis and in the therapy of mental disorders. It is no exaggeration to suggest that tools such as AI, neuroimaging and blood tests will bring significant change to psychiatry in the coming years, but even so, treating severe mental disorders remains a challenge. The present review summarized the development of ECT over time, its application in clinical practice, neurobiological correlates and mechanisms of action and sheds light on the important place of ECT in the era of technological development, considering that ECT is still the most effective therapy for the treatment of severe mental disorders, especially depressive disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zvezdana Stojanović
- Clinic for Psychiatry, Military Medical Academy, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
- Medical Faculty of the Military Medical Academy, University of Defence, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Katarina Simić
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Vesna Tepšić Ostojić
- Clinic for Psychiatry, Military Medical Academy, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
- Medical Faculty of the Military Medical Academy, University of Defence, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Zagorka Gojković
- Clinic for Psychiatry, Military Medical Academy, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Aleksandra Petković-Ćurčin
- Medical Faculty of the Military Medical Academy, University of Defence, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
- Institute for Medical Research, Military Medical Academy, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
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Loef D, van Eijndhoven PFP, Schouws SNTM, Slooter AJC, Janssen N, Kok RM, Rutten BPF, van Exel E, Rhebergen D, Oudega ML, Mocking RJT, Tendolkar I, Dols A, Verwijk E. The sensitivity of the Mini-Mental State Examination to detect objective cognitive side-effects induced by electroconvulsive therapy, results from the Dutch ECT Consortium. BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY. COGNITIVE NEUROSCIENCE AND NEUROIMAGING 2024:S2451-9022(24)00236-2. [PMID: 39128496 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpsc.2024.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2024] [Revised: 07/19/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Monitoring cognitive side-effects following electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is crucial for balancing side-effects and clinical effectiveness. Unfortunately, evidence-based guidelines on cognitive testing following ECT are lacking. A frequently used test in global ECT practice is the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE). We examined the change of the MMSE and its performance in identifying a decline in predefined neuropsychological measures sensitive to ECT-induced cognitive changes: verbal recall and verbal fluency. METHODS The mean MMSE scores pre- and one week post-ECT were compared using a Wilcoxon signed-rank test. The Reliable Change Index was calculated for all cognitive measures to indicate whether an individual's change score from pre- to post-ECT is considered statistically significant. The sensitivity and specificity of the MMSE were calculated. RESULTS 426 patients with depression from five sites were included from the Dutch ECT Consortium. The mean MMSE increased significantly from 26.2 (SD=3.9) pre-ECT to 26.8 (SD=3.8) post-ECT (p=0.002). 36 patients (8.5%) showed a significant decline in MMSE score post-ECT. The sensitivity of the MMSE in identifying patients who experienced a significant decline in verbal recall or verbal fluency ranged from 3.6% to 11.1%. The specificity of the MMSE in identifying patients who did not experience a significant decline in verbal recall or verbal fluency ranged from 95.6% to 96.6%. CONCLUSIONS Given the very low sensitivity of the MMSE, we propose reconsidering the prominence of the MMSE in ECT practice and cognitive monitoring guidelines, advocating for a more comprehensive approach to assess ECT-induced cognitive changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dore Loef
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Psychiatry, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Amsterdam Neuroscience, Mood, Anxiety, Psychosis, Sleep & Stress program, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; GGZ inGeest Mental Health Care, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Philip F P van Eijndhoven
- Department of Psychiatry, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Department of Psychiatry, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Sigfried N T M Schouws
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Psychiatry, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Amsterdam Neuroscience, Mood, Anxiety, Psychosis, Sleep & Stress program, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; GGZ inGeest Mental Health Care, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Arjen J C Slooter
- Department of Psychiatry, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands; Department of Intensive Care Medicine, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands; Department of Neurology, UZ Brussel and Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nikki Janssen
- Department of Psychiatry, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Department of Psychiatry, Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Donders Centre for Medical Neuroscience, Department of Medical Psychology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Rob M Kok
- Department of Old Age Psychiatry, Parnassia Psychiatric Institute, The Hague, The Netherlands
| | - Bart P F Rutten
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Eric van Exel
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Psychiatry, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Amsterdam Neuroscience, Mood, Anxiety, Psychosis, Sleep & Stress program, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; GGZ inGeest Mental Health Care, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Didi Rhebergen
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Psychiatry, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Research, GGZ Centraal Mental Health Care, Amersfoort, The Netherlands
| | - Mardien L Oudega
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Psychiatry, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Amsterdam Neuroscience, Mood, Anxiety, Psychosis, Sleep & Stress program, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; GGZ inGeest Mental Health Care, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Roel J T Mocking
- Amsterdam Neuroscience, Mood, Anxiety, Psychosis, Sleep & Stress program, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Indira Tendolkar
- Department of Psychiatry, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Department of Psychiatry, Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Annemiek Dols
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Psychiatry, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Amsterdam Neuroscience, Mood, Anxiety, Psychosis, Sleep & Stress program, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Psychiatry, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Esmée Verwijk
- University of Amsterdam, Department of Psychology, Brain and Cognition, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Amsterdam UMC, Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; ECT department, Parnassia Psychiatric Institute, The Hague, The Netherlands
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Hu R, Li J, Lu Y, Luo H, Zhang Y, Wang X, Zhang Z, Luo Q. The effect of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on cognitive function recovery in patients with depression following electroconvulsive therapy (ECT): protocol for a randomized controlled trial. BMC Psychiatry 2024; 24:130. [PMID: 38365634 PMCID: PMC10870564 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-024-05567-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a highly effective treatment for depressive disorder. However, the use of ECT is limited by its cognitive side effects (CSEs), and no specific intervention has been developed to address this problem. As transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a safe and useful tool for improving cognitive function, the main objective of this study was to explore the ability to use tDCS after ECT to ameliorate the cognitive side effects. METHODS 60 eligible participants will be recruited within two days after completing ECT course and randomly assigned to receive either active or sham stimulation in a blinded, parallel-design trial and continue their usual pharmacotherapy. The tDCS protocol consists of 30-min sessions at 2 mA, 5 times per week for 2 consecutive weeks, applied through 15-cm2 electrodes. An anode will be placed over the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), and a cathode will be placed over the right supraorbital cortex. Cognitive function and depressive symptoms will be assessed before the first stimulation (T0), after the final stimulation (T1), 2 weeks after the final stimulation (T2), and 4 weeks after the final stimulation (T3) using the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB). DISCUSSION We describe a novel clinical trial to explore whether the administration of tDCS after completing ECT course can accelerates recovery from the CSEs. We hypothesized that the active group would recover faster from the CSEs and be superior to the sham group. If our hypothesis is supported, the use of tDCS could benefit eligible patients who are reluctant to receive ECT and reduce the risk of self-inflicted or suicide due to delays in treatment. TRIAL REGISTRATION DETAILS The trial protocol is registered with https://www.chictr.org.cn/ under protocol registration number ChiCTR2300071147 (date of registration: 05.06.2023). Recruitment will start in November 2023.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renqin Hu
- Department of Psychiatry, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Junyao Li
- Department of Psychiatry, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Yulin Lu
- Department of Psychiatry, People's Hospital of Chongqing Banan District, Chongqing, China
| | - Huirong Luo
- Department of Psychiatry, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Yinlin Zhang
- Department of Psychiatry, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Xueqian Wang
- Department of Psychiatry, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Zheng Zhang
- Department of Psychiatry, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Qinghua Luo
- Department of Psychiatry, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.
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Miskowiak KW, Petersen JZ, Macoveanu J, Ysbæk-Nielsen AT, Lindegaard IA, Cramer K, Mogensen MB, Hammershøj LG, Stougaard ME, Jørgensen JL, Schmidt LS, Vinberg M, Ehrenreich H, Hageman I, Videbech P, Gbyl K, Kellner CH, Kessing LV, Jørgensen MB. Effect of erythropoietin on cognitive side-effects of electroconvulsive therapy in depression: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2024; 79:38-48. [PMID: 38128460 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2023.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is one of the most effective and rapid-acting treatment for severe depression but is associated with cognitive side-effects. Identification of add-on treatments that counteract these side-effects would be very helpful. This randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study investigated the effects of four add-on erythropoietin (EPO; 40,000 IU/ml) or saline (placebo) infusions over 2.5 weeks of ECT (eight ECT sessions) in severely depressed patients with unipolar or bipolar depression. Neuropsychological assessments were conducted pre-ECT, three days after the eighth ECT (week 4), and at a 3-month follow-up. Further, functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was conducted after the eighth ECT. The primary outcome was change from pre- to post-ECT in a 'speed of complex cognitive processing' composite. Secondary outcomes were verbal and autobiographical memory. Of sixty randomized patients, one dropped out before baseline. Data were thus analysed for 59 patients (EPO, n = 33; saline, n = 26), of whom 28 had fMRI data. No ECT-related decline occurred in the primary global cognition measure (ps≥0.1), and no effect of EPO versus saline was observed on this outcome (ps≥0.3). However post-ECT, EPO-treated patients exhibited faster autobiographical memory recall than saline-treated patients (p = 0.02), which was accompanied by lower memory-related parietal cortex activity. The absence of global cognition changes with ECT and EPO, coupled with the specific impact of EPO on autobiographical memory recall speed and memory-related parietal cortex activity, suggests that assessing autobiographical memory may provide increased sensitivity in evaluating and potentially preventing cognitive side-effects of ECT. TRIAL REGISTRATIONS: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03339596, EudraCT no.: 2016-002326-36.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamilla W Miskowiak
- Copenhagen Affective Disorder Research Centre (CADIC), Psychiatric Centre Copenhagen, Frederiksberg Hospital, Mental Health Services, Capital Region of Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark; Neurocognition and Emotion in Affective Disorders Centre (NEAD), Department of Psychology, University of Copenhagen, and Mental Health Services, Capital Region of Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Jeff Z Petersen
- Copenhagen Affective Disorder Research Centre (CADIC), Psychiatric Centre Copenhagen, Frederiksberg Hospital, Mental Health Services, Capital Region of Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Julian Macoveanu
- Copenhagen Affective Disorder Research Centre (CADIC), Psychiatric Centre Copenhagen, Frederiksberg Hospital, Mental Health Services, Capital Region of Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Alexander T Ysbæk-Nielsen
- Copenhagen Affective Disorder Research Centre (CADIC), Psychiatric Centre Copenhagen, Frederiksberg Hospital, Mental Health Services, Capital Region of Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark; Neurocognition and Emotion in Affective Disorders Centre (NEAD), Department of Psychology, University of Copenhagen, and Mental Health Services, Capital Region of Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ida A Lindegaard
- Copenhagen Affective Disorder Research Centre (CADIC), Psychiatric Centre Copenhagen, Frederiksberg Hospital, Mental Health Services, Capital Region of Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark; Neurocognition and Emotion in Affective Disorders Centre (NEAD), Department of Psychology, University of Copenhagen, and Mental Health Services, Capital Region of Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Katrine Cramer
- Copenhagen Affective Disorder Research Centre (CADIC), Psychiatric Centre Copenhagen, Frederiksberg Hospital, Mental Health Services, Capital Region of Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Madel B Mogensen
- Copenhagen Affective Disorder Research Centre (CADIC), Psychiatric Centre Copenhagen, Frederiksberg Hospital, Mental Health Services, Capital Region of Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lisa G Hammershøj
- Copenhagen Affective Disorder Research Centre (CADIC), Psychiatric Centre Copenhagen, Frederiksberg Hospital, Mental Health Services, Capital Region of Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Marie E Stougaard
- Copenhagen Affective Disorder Research Centre (CADIC), Psychiatric Centre Copenhagen, Frederiksberg Hospital, Mental Health Services, Capital Region of Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Josefine L Jørgensen
- Copenhagen Affective Disorder Research Centre (CADIC), Psychiatric Centre Copenhagen, Frederiksberg Hospital, Mental Health Services, Capital Region of Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lejla Sjanic Schmidt
- Copenhagen Affective Disorder Research Centre (CADIC), Psychiatric Centre Copenhagen, Frederiksberg Hospital, Mental Health Services, Capital Region of Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Maj Vinberg
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; The Early Multimodular Prevention and Intervention Research Institution (EMPIRI), Mental Health Centre, Northern Zealand, Copenhagen University Hospital, Mental Health Services, Capital Region of Denmark, Denmark
| | - Hannelore Ehrenreich
- Clincial Neuroscience, Max-Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Ida Hageman
- Mental Health Services, Capital Region of Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Poul Videbech
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Psychiatric Centre Glostrup, Mental Health Services, Capital Region of Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Krzysztof Gbyl
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Psychiatric Centre Glostrup, Mental Health Services, Capital Region of Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Charles H Kellner
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Lars V Kessing
- Copenhagen Affective Disorder Research Centre (CADIC), Psychiatric Centre Copenhagen, Frederiksberg Hospital, Mental Health Services, Capital Region of Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Martin B Jørgensen
- Copenhagen Affective Disorder Research Centre (CADIC), Psychiatric Centre Copenhagen, Frederiksberg Hospital, Mental Health Services, Capital Region of Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Sellevåg K, Bartz-Johannessen CA, Oedegaard KJ, Nordenskjöld A, Mohn C, Bjørke JS, Kessler U. Unmasking patient diversity: Exploring cognitive and antidepressive effects of electroconvulsive therapy. Eur Psychiatry 2024; 67:e12. [PMID: 38214065 DOI: 10.1192/j.eurpsy.2024.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is an established treatment for depression, but more data on effectiveness and safety in clinical practice is needed. The aim of this register-based study was to investigate short-term effectiveness and cognitive safety after ECT, evaluated by clinicians and patients. Secondary, we investigated predictors for remission and cognitive decline. METHODS The study included 392 patients from the Regional Register for Neurostimulation Treatment in Western Norway. Depressive symptoms and cognitive function were assessed with Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale and Mini-Mental State Examination (clinician-rated) and Beck Depression Inventory and Everyday Memory Questionnaire (patient-rated). Assessments were done prior to ECT-series and a mean of 1.7 days after (range 6 days before and 12 days after) end of ECT-series. Paired samples t-tests were extended by detailed, clinically relevant subgroups. Predictors were examined using logistic regression. RESULTS Clinician- and patient-rated remission rates were 49.5 and 41.0%, respectively. There was a large reduction in depressive symptoms and a small improvement in cognition after ECT, but we also identified subgroups with non-response of ECT in combination with cognitive decline (4.6% clinician-rated, 15.7% patient-rated). Positive predictors for patient- and clinician-rated remission were increasing age, shorter duration of depressive episode, and psychotic features. Antipsychotic medication at the commencement of treatment and previous ECT-treatment gave higher odds of clinician-rated remission, whereas higher pretreatment subjective depression level was associated with lower odds for patient-rated remission. Clinician-rated cognitive decline was predicted by higher pretreatment MMSE scores, whereas psychotic features, increasing age, and greater pretreatment subjective memory concerns were associated with lower odds for patient-rated cognitive decline. CONCLUSIONS Our study supports ECT as an effective and safe treatment, although subgroups have a less favorable outcome. ECT should be considered at an early stage for older patients suffering from depression with psychotic features. Providing comprehensive and balanced information from clinicians and patients perspectives on effects and side effects, may assist in a joint consent process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kjersti Sellevåg
- NKS Olaviken Gerontopsychiatric Hospital, Askøy, Norway
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Christoffer A Bartz-Johannessen
- Department of Psychiatry, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- Norwegian Centre for Mental Disorders Research (NORMENT), Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ketil J Oedegaard
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Psychiatry, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- Norwegian Centre for Mental Disorders Research (NORMENT), Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Axel Nordenskjöld
- The University Health Care Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Christine Mohn
- Norwegian Centre for Mental Disorders Research (NORMENT), Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- National Centre for Suicide Research and Prevention (NSSF), Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Jeanette S Bjørke
- Psychiatric Division, Stavanger University Hospital, Stavanger, Norway
| | - Ute Kessler
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Psychiatry, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- Norwegian Centre for Mental Disorders Research (NORMENT), Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
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Guo Q, Wang Y, Guo L, Li X, Ma X, He X, Li J, Zhang X, Shang S. Long-term cognitive effects of electroconvulsive therapy in major depressive disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Psychiatry Res 2024; 331:115611. [PMID: 38101070 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2023.115611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is endorsed as a principal treatment approach for major depressive disorder (MDD) worldwide. Despite prior studies highlighting potential short-term cognitive deficits post-ECT, the debate regarding its long-term implications persists. This study endeavors to elucidate the reasons for this contention using an evidence-based approach. METHODS This investigation, meticulously aligned with PRISMA guidelines, was prospectively enlisted on PROSPERO (CRD42023439259). A comprehensive search was performed across various databases, including PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Embase, SCOPUS, PsycINFO, CINAHL Plus, and OpenGrey. This review, traversing the literature from inception until June 2023, encapsulated 10 studies (five RCTs and five quasi-experimental studies) involving a cohort of 868 individuals diagnosed with major depressive disorder. RESULTS The meta-analysis revealed that the persistent discourse on ECT-induced long-term cognitive impairment chiefly emanates from the inadequacies in the specificity and sensitivity of conventional assessment instruments. Conversely, subgroup analyses showed that cognitive impairment in ECT, as gauged by the nascent assessment tool, Electroconvulsive Therapy Cognitive Assessment (ECCA) (SMD = -0.94, 95 % CI [-1.33, -0.54], p < 0.00001), exerted a detrimental influence on the long-term trajectory of individuals with MDD. Notably, there was an adverse effect of ECT on the subdomain of long-term learning cognitive abilities in patients with MDD (SMD = -0.37, 95 % CI [-0.55, -0.18], p < 0.0001). Contrarily, memory (SMD = 0.16, 95 % CI [-0.02, 0.34], p = 0.08), attention (SMD = 0.23, 95 % CI [-0.07, 0.54], p = 0.14), language (SMD = -0.10, 95 % CI [-0.25, 0.05], p = 0.19), spatial perception, and orientation (SMD = -0.04, 95 % CI [-0.28, 0.20], p = 0.75) exhibited no significant detriments. Intriguingly, ECT showed favorable effects on executive function and processing speed among patients with MDD (SMD = 0.52, 95 % CI [0.29, 0.74], p < 0.00001). CONCLUSION This meta-analysis underscores ECCA's superior sensitivity of the ECCA compared to the MMSE or MoCA in detecting cognitive changes in patients with post-ECT MDD. Following Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT), deterioration was observed in overall cognitive function and learning capabilities, while memory, attention, language, and spatial perception remained stable. Notably, enhancements were discerned in executive function and processing speed, which not only augmented academic perspectives but also steered the formulation of international clinical guidelines, accentuating the progressive role of ECT in the therapeutic approach to MDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinghua Guo
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Beijing, China; School of Nursing, Peking University, Beijing, China.
| | - Yong Wang
- Department of Nursing, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Beijing, China.
| | - Libo Guo
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xueqi Li
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiangyun Ma
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoxiao He
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jitao Li
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao Zhang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Shaomei Shang
- School of Nursing, Peking University, Beijing, China.
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10
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Hjerrild S, Jørgensen MB, Dam OH, Tehrani E, Videbech P, Osler M. Electroconvulsive Therapy and Risk of Road Traffic Accidents: A Danish Register-Based Cohort Study. J ECT 2023; 39:10-14. [PMID: 36095094 DOI: 10.1097/yct.0000000000000881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the study is to examine whether electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) was associated with the subsequent risk of being involved in a road traffic accident. METHODS A cohort of all 375,435 patients older than 18 years with their first psychiatric hospital contact between 2003 and 2017 in the Danish National Patient Registry was followed for road traffic accidents until December 2018. Associations between ECT and road traffic accidents were examined using Cox regression analyses with multiple adjustments and using propensity score matching on sociodemographic and clinical variables. RESULTS A total of 8486 patients (0.2%) were treated with ECT. During the median follow-up of 5.9 years, 778 of these patients (12.5%) were involved in a road traffic accident and the unadjusted incidence of road traffic accidents was lower among these patients (incidence rate, 15.5 per 1000 patient-years; 95% confidence interval [CI], 14.5-16.7) compared with patients not treated with ECT (incidence rate, 20.0 per 1000 patient-years; 95% CI, 20.0-20.3). Electroconvulsive therapy was not associated with road traffic accidents in the Cox regression models after adjustment for all covariables (hazard ratio, 1.00; 95% CI, 0.92-1.08) or in the propensity score-matched sample (hazard ratio, 0.91; 95% CI, 0.83-1.08). The HRs did not vary materially with follow-up time or when analyses were stratified on sex, age, or type of hospital contact. CONCLUSIONS The analysis of Danish National registry data indicates that ECT is not associated with the risk of being involved in major road traffic accidents.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ole Henrik Dam
- Mental Health Center Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet, Affective Outpatient Clinic, Copenhagen
| | - Elisabeth Tehrani
- Department for Affective Disorders, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus
| | - Poul Videbech
- Centre for Neuropsychiatric Research, Mental Health Centre Glostrup, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen
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11
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Preservation of spatial cognitive functioning in depressed patients treated with bilateral electroconvulsive therapy. Asian J Psychiatr 2023; 79:103367. [PMID: 36493691 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajp.2022.103367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is associated with memory and non-memory, verbal and nonverbal cognitive deficits. This study was conducted to test the expectation that the Tactual Performance Test (TPT) is uniquely sensitive to perturbation by ECT. Importantly, this study included a non-ECT disease control group. METHODS Inpatients (n = 35) referred for ECT for the treatment of a major depressive episode were assessed 1-2 days before and after a course of ECT using a logical memory test, the digit span test, the block design test, and the TPT. A comparison cohort was formed from antidepressant-treated inpatients (n = 35); these patients were similarly assessed at admission and discharge. All treatment in both cohorts was naturalistic. Because patients had not been randomized to their respective treatments, the design was quasi-experimental. RESULTS At baseline, ECT-treated patients were more severely ill than control patients. ECT patients received a mean of 7.5 treatments in addition to necessary pharmacotherapy. Almost all ECT was bilateral. Because of illness severity, baseline cognitive assessments were possible in only 15 (43%) ECT and 31 (89%) control patients (P < 0.001). At endpoint, 15% vs 0% of patients in the ECT vs control groups, respectively, had remitted. Endpoint cognitive assessments were conducted in all patients. The ECT and antidepressant cohorts did not differ on any cognitive test or subtest at endpoint; the only exception was that ECT patients performed more poorly on the TPT shapes subtest at both baseline and endpoint, but were more improved (at endpoint) than control patients on this outcome (effect size, 0.84 vs 0.60). CONCLUSION Depressed patients treated naturalistically with a mean of 7.5 bilateral ECTs did not show detectable memory and non-memory, verbal and nonverbal cognitive deficits on the 4 tests at the end of a treatment course relative to depressed patients treated with antidepressants alone. The TPT is not sensitive to perturbation by ECT.
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12
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Laurin A, Bonjour M, Galvao F, Dubien Berbey C, Sauvaget A, Bulteau S. The anticholinergic burden is not associated with cognitive impairments in patients treated by electroconvulsive therapy for treatment-resistant depression. J Psychiatr Res 2022; 150:87-95. [PMID: 35366599 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2022.03.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is the most effective non-pharmacological treatment for treatment-resistant depression (TRD) but can expose to transient cognitive impairments. Understanding factors underlying these cognitive side effects is important. This study investigated the impact of anticholinergic treatments on cognitive performances after ECT courses for TRD in naturalistic condition. METHODS Impact of anticholinergic burden (Anticholinergic Impregnation Scale, AIS) on cognitive changes (Montreal Cognitive Assessment, MoCA) adjusted on depression level (Montgomery and Asberg Depression Scale, MADRS) was investigated in 42 patients who received an ECT course between 2017 and 2020 for unipolar or bipolar TRD. Collection of daily treatments given during ECT was carried out via the computerized traceability of treatments validated by nurses. RESULTS Among the 31 treatments identified with an anticholinergic score, which represent only 38% of total treatments, the three most frequently given treatments were Lorazepam (47%), Venlafaxine (36%) and Cyamemazine (26%). Delayed recall was the most frequently impaired cognitive function after ECT courses. Using logistic regression, we found no association between the anticholinergic burden and the decrease in cognitive scores after ECT courses, adjusted on MADRS score evolution (p > 0.1). Conversely, improvement in MADRS scores were correlated with improvement in attention MoCA subscores. LIMITATIONS This is a retrospective monocentric study with a moderate sample size using anticholinergic scales to calculate the anticholinergic burden without plasma dosage. CONCLUSION Anticholinergic treatments did not seem to explain ECT-related cognitive impairments. This warrants further large prospective investigations including different measures of anticholinergic burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Laurin
- CHU de Nantes, F-44000, Nantes, France; Laboratoire 'Mouvement, Interactions, Performance' (MIP), EA 4334, Nantes Université, F-44000, Nantes, France.
| | - Maxime Bonjour
- Hospices Civils de Lyon, F-69000, Lyon, France; Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, F-69000, Lyon, France
| | - Filipe Galvao
- Centre Hospitalier Le Vinatier, F-69678, Bron, France
| | | | - Anne Sauvaget
- CHU de Nantes, F-44000, Nantes, France; Laboratoire 'Mouvement, Interactions, Performance' (MIP), EA 4334, Nantes Université, F-44000, Nantes, France
| | - Samuel Bulteau
- CHU de Nantes, F-44000, Nantes, France; INSERM U1246 SPHERE 'methodS in Patient-centered outcomes and Health ResEarch', Nantes Université, F-44000, Nantes, France
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13
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Hammershøj LG, Petersen JZ, Jensen HM, Jørgensen MB, Miskowiak KW. Cognitive Adverse Effects of Electroconvulsive Therapy: A Discrepancy Between Subjective and Objective Measures? J ECT 2022; 38:30-38. [PMID: 34699394 DOI: 10.1097/yct.0000000000000797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The character and duration of cognitive adverse effects of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) are unclear. This study investigated (1) the sensitivity of a short cognitive test battery to cognitive adverse effects of ECT, (2) the relation between subjective and objective cognitive adverse effects, and (3) patient characteristics associated with more subjective than objective adverse effects. METHODS Forty-one patients with unipolar or bipolar depression referred to ECT underwent assessments at baseline, 5 to 7 days post-ECT, and 3 months post-ECT. Patients rated their fear of various aspects of ECT on a visual analog scale. At each assessment, patients were evaluated for depressive symptoms, completed the Screen for Cognitive Impairment in Psychiatry (SCIP) and Trail Making Test-Part B (TMT-B), and rated their cognitive difficulties. RESULTS Patients feared cognitive adverse effects and lack of treatment efficacy more than other aspects of ECT. The SCIP and TMT-B revealed transient decline in objective cognition after ECT, which was reversed after 3 months. Patients presented with more subjective than objective cognitive difficulties at baseline and more subjective than objective cognitive adverse effects of ECT. This discrepancy was significantly reduced at follow-up. Younger age and poorer objective cognition pretreatment were associated with more subjective than objective cognitive adverse effects 5 to 7 days after ECT. CONCLUSIONS The SCIP and TMT-B are sensitive to cognitive adverse effects of ECT. Patients show more subjective than objective cognitive adverse effects of ECT. These insights can be used clinically to inform patients of treatment choice and expected cognitive consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa G Hammershøj
- From the Neurocognition and Emotion in Affective Disorders Group, Psychiatric Centre Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet
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14
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Hjerrild S, Kahlert J, Buchholtz PE, Rosenberg R, Videbech P. Long-Term Risk of Developing Dementia After Electroconvulsive Therapy for Affective Disorders. J ECT 2021; 37:250-255. [PMID: 33907075 DOI: 10.1097/yct.0000000000000770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Severe depression is associated with an increased risk of developing dementia, however, whether treatment with electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) modify this risk remains unknown. METHODS In this matched cohort study, 1089 consecutive in-patients with affective disorders, receiving ECT during the period 1982 to 2000, were matched with 3011 in-patients with affective disorders not treated with ECT (non-ECT), and 108,867 individuals randomly selected from the background population. The comparison cohorts were matched on sex, age, and the non-ECT cohort was further matched according to diagnoses and admission period and hospital. Dementia diagnoses were retrieved from the national patient health registry. Analyses were adjusted for disease severity, somatic, and psychiatric comorbidities. RESULTS The cumulative incidence of dementia was 13.45% (10.75-16.46%) in the ECT cohort after 34 years of follow-up, 10.53% (8.5-12.81%) in the non-ECT cohort, and 8.43% (8.17-8.7%) in the background cohort. Using the ECT cohort as reference and age as the underlying time scale, the adjusted hazard ratio of developing dementia was 0.73 (0.52-1.04) in the non-ECT cohort and 0.61 (0.49-0.76) in the background cohort. The stratified analysis based on age at index (<65 years; 65-80 years; >80 years) found no age-related difference in the risk of developing dementia between the ECT cohort and non-ECT cohort. CONCLUSIONS The ECT treatment of affective disorders was not associated with an increased long-term risk of developing dementia compared with in-patients with affective disorders not treated with ECT.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Johnny Kahlert
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital
| | | | - Raben Rosenberg
- Psychiatric Centre Amager, Mental Health Services Capital Region of Denmark, Aarhus
| | - Poul Videbech
- Centre for Neuropsychiatric Depression Research, Mental Health Centre Glostrup, Glostrup, Denmark
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15
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Steinholtz L, Reutfors J, Brandt L, Nordanskog P, Thörnblom E, Persson J, Bodén R. Response rate and subjective memory after electroconvulsive therapy in depressive disorders with psychiatric comorbidity. J Affect Disord 2021; 292:276-283. [PMID: 34134026 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2021.05.078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Response rates after and tolerability of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in depressive disorders with psychiatric comorbidity are uncertain. METHODS Data on patients with a depressive episode and a first course of ECT were collected from the Swedish National Quality Register for ECT. Logistic regression analyses, adjusted for gender, age, and depressive episode severity, were used to compare patients with and without comorbidity. The clinical response assessment Clinical Global Impression - Improvement Scale was used in 4413 patients and the memory item from the Comprehensive Psychiatric Rating Scale was used for subjective memory impairment rating after ECT in 3497 patients. RESULTS In patients with depressive disorder and comorbid personality disorder or anxiety disorder, 62.7% and 73.5%, respectively, responded after ECT compared with 84.9% in patients without comorbidity [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 0.43, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.34-0.55, and aOR 0.61, 95% CI 0.51-0.73, respectively]. The proportion of responding patients with comorbid alcohol use disorder was 77.1%, which was not significantly different from that in patients without comorbidity (aOR 0.75, 95% CI 0.57-1.01). The impact of comorbidity decreased with higher age and depressive episode severity. Subjective ratings of memory impairment did not differ between patients with and without comorbidity. LIMITATIONS Observational non-validated clinical data. CONCLUSIONS The response rate after ECT in depression may be lower with concurrent personality disorder and anxiety disorder; however, the majority still respond to ECT. This implies that psychiatric comorbidity should not exclude patients from ECT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Steinholtz
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychiatry, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Johan Reutfors
- Department of Medicine Solna, Centre for Pharmacoepidemiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lena Brandt
- Department of Medicine Solna, Centre for Pharmacoepidemiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Pia Nordanskog
- Center for Social and Affective neuroscience, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Elin Thörnblom
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychiatry, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Jonas Persson
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychiatry, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Robert Bodén
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychiatry, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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Anderson IM, McAllister-Williams RH, Downey D, Elliott R, Loo C. Cognitive function after electroconvulsive therapy for depression: relationship to clinical response. Psychol Med 2021; 51:1647-1656. [PMID: 32102725 PMCID: PMC8327625 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291720000379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2019] [Revised: 01/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND As uncertainty remains about whether clinical response influences cognitive function after electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) for depression, we examined the effect of remission status on cognitive function in depressed patients 4 months after a course of ECT. METHOD A secondary analysis was undertaken on participants completing a randomised controlled trial of ketamine augmentation of ECT for depression who were categorised by remission status (MADRS ⩽10 v. >10) 4 months after ECT. Cognition was assessed with self-rated memory and neuropsychological tests of anterograde verbal and visual memory, autobiographical memory, verbal fluency and working memory. Patients were assessed through the study, healthy controls on a single occasion, and compared using analysis of variance. RESULTS At 4-month follow-up, remitted patients (N = 18) had a mean MADRS depression score of 3.8 (95% CI 2.2-5.4) compared with 27.2 (23.0-31.5) in non-remitted patients (N = 19), with no significant baseline differences between the two groups. Patients were impaired on all cognitive measures at baseline. There was no deterioration, with some measures improving, 4-months after ECT, at which time remitted patients had significantly improved self-rated memory, anterograde verbal memory and category verbal fluency compared with those remaining depressed. Self-rated memory correlated with category fluency and autobiographical memory at follow-up. CONCLUSIONS We found no evidence of persistent impairment of cognition after ECT. Achieving remission improved subjective memory and verbal memory recall, but other aspects of cognitive function were not influenced by remission status. Self-rated memory may be useful to monitor the effects of ECT on longer-term memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian M. Anderson
- Neuroscience and Psychiatry Unit, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | | | - Darragh Downey
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Rebecca Elliott
- Neuroscience and Psychiatry Unit, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Colleen Loo
- University of New South Wales, Black Dog Institute & St George Hospital, Sydney, Australia
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Cicek M, McCall WV, Yao Z, Sackeim HA, Rosenquist P, Youssef NA. Is There Evidence That Stimulus Parameters and Electrode Placement Affect the Cognitive Side Effects of Electroconvulsive Therapy in Patients With Schizophrenia and Schizoaffective Disorder?: A Systematic Review. J ECT 2021; 37:133-139. [PMID: 33369995 DOI: 10.1097/yct.0000000000000737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Seventy percent of patients with treatment-resistant schizophrenia do not respond to clozapine. Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) can potentially offer significant benefit in clozapine-resistant patients. However, cognitive side effects can occur with ECT and are a function of stimulus parameters and electrode placements. Thus, the objective of this article is to systematically review published clinical trials related to the effect of ECT stimulus parameters and electrode placements on cognitive side effects. We performed a systematic review of the literature up to July of 2020 for clinical studies published in English or German examining the effect of ECT stimulus parameters and/or electrode placement on cognitive side effects in patients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder. The literature search generated 3 randomized, double-blind, clinical trials, 1 randomized, nonblinded trial, and 1 retrospective study. There are mixed findings regarding whether pulse width and stimulus dose impact on cognitive side effects. One study showed less cognitive side effect for right unilateral (RUL) than bitemporal (BT) electrode placement, and 2 studies showed a cognitive advantage for bifrontal (BF) compared with BT ECT. Only 1 retrospective study measured global cognition and showed post-ECT cognitive improvement with all treatment modalities using Montreal Cognitive Assessment in comparison to pre-ECT Montreal Cognitive Assessment scores. Current data are limited, but evolving. The evidence suggests that RUL or BF ECT have more favorable cognitive outcomes than BT ECT. Definitive larger clinical trials are needed to optimize parameter and electrode placement selection to minimize adverse cognitive effects.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - William V McCall
- Department of Psychiatry & Health Behavior, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA
| | - Zhixing Yao
- Department of Psychiatry & Health Behavior, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA
| | - Harold A Sackeim
- Departments of Psychiatry and Radiology, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Peter Rosenquist
- Department of Psychiatry & Health Behavior, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA
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Dominiak M, Goetz Z, Antosik-Wojcinska AZ, Swiecicki L. Right unilateral versus bilateral formula-based electroconvulsive therapy in the treatment of major depression in elderly patients: a randomised, open label, pilot controlled trial. Psychogeriatrics 2021; 21:175-184. [PMID: 33442924 DOI: 10.1111/psyg.12652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Revised: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 12/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) remains the most effective treatment of depression in the elderly population; however, it is still unclear which type of ECT is most beneficial in this population. The aims of this study were: (i) to assess the feasibility of a randomised controlled trial in elderly depressed patients treated with right unilateral (RUL) or fronto-temporal bilateral (BT) formula-based ECT; (ii) to compare formula-based RUL and BT ECT in terms of efficacy, safety and tolerability in this population. METHODS The study lasted 3 years and managed to randomise 29 patients over 65 years old to receive either BT (n = 14) or RUL (n = 15) ECT. Brief pulse width (0.5 ms) and age-based dosing method were applied. The clinical efficacy was assessed using Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, somatic state was monitored throughout the ECT course. In neuropsychological examination general cognitive performance, executive functions, verbal fluency, memory, autobiographical memory were evaluated. RESULTS The recruitment was poor due to small number of patients able to give informed consent. ECT proved to be a highly effective and safe method of treatment among elders. Formula-based RUL ECT did not differ from BT in antidepressant efficacy and had cognitive advantages - the indices of general cognitive performance, verbal fluency and memory were significantly better than before the treatment in the RUL group. Decline in retrieval consistency of autobiographical memory was more pronounced in the BT group, although it was observed across both groups. CONCLUSIONS Formula-based RUL ECT might not differ from BT in antidepressant efficacy and has an advantage in terms of tolerability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Dominiak
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Zuzanna Goetz
- Department of Affective Disorders, Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Lukasz Swiecicki
- Department of Affective Disorders, Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology, Warsaw, Poland
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Dominiak M, Antosik-Wójcińska AZ, Goetz Z, Sikorska O, Stefanowski B, Gorostiza D, Święcicki Ł. Efficacy, safety and tolerability of formula-based unilateral vs bilateral electroconvulsive therapy in the treatment of major depression: A randomized open label controlled trial. J Psychiatr Res 2021; 133:52-59. [PMID: 33310500 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2020.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2020] [Revised: 11/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) remains the most effective treatment of depression, though it is still unclear which of its type is the most beneficial. The aim of this study was to compare the formula-based right unilateral ECT (RUL) with the fronto-temporal bilateral ECT (BT), in terms of their efficacy, safety and tolerability in patients with bipolar or unipolar depression. Ninety-one patients were randomly assigned to either BT (n = 45) or RUL (n = 46) ECT. Brief pulse width (0.5 ms) and a formula-based dosing method were applied. The clinical efficacy was assessed using the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS-21).The somatic state was monitored throughout the ECT course and cognitive examination included: general cognitive performance, executive functions, visual-spatial functions, verbal fluency, verbal memory and autobiographical memory. Efficacy outcomes were not found to be significantly different between groups when using higher doses of energy in RUL ECT. Patients in RUL group were less likely to be confused and experienced increased blood pressure. The indices of general cognitive performance and verbal auditory memory were also significantly better this group, while BT ECT did not change these functions. Both ECT types resulted in a decline in the retrieval consistency of autobiographical memory that persists for at least three months and was significantly more marked in BT group as compared to RUL. In conclusion, formula-based RUL ECT does not differ from BT in antidepressant efficacy and has an advantage in terms of safety (lower incidence of increased blood pressure and fewer disturbances of consciousness) and tolerability (impact on cognitive functions).
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Dominiak
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology, Sobieskiego 9, 02-957, Warsaw, Poland.
| | | | - Zuzanna Goetz
- Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology, Sobieskiego 9, 02-957, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Olga Sikorska
- Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology, Sobieskiego 9, 02-957, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Bogdan Stefanowski
- Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology, Sobieskiego 9, 02-957, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Dagny Gorostiza
- Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology, Sobieskiego 9, 02-957, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Łukasz Święcicki
- Department of Affective Disorders, Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology, Sobieskiego 9, 02-957, Warsaw, Poland
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20
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Ahmed AO. Cognitive Remediation for Schizophrenia. FOCUS (AMERICAN PSYCHIATRIC PUBLISHING) 2020; 18:436-439. [PMID: 33343256 DOI: 10.1176/appi.focus.20200035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Anthony O Ahmed
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medicine, White Plains, New York
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21
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Ptomey LT, Szabo-Reed AN, Martin LE, Mayo MS, Washburn RA, Gorczyca AM, Lepping RJ, Lee P, Forsha DE, Sherman JR, Danon JC, Donnelly JE. The promotion of physical activity for the prevention of Alzheimer's disease in adults with Down Syndrome: Rationale and design for a 12 Month randomized trial. Contemp Clin Trials Commun 2020; 19:100607. [PMID: 32642594 PMCID: PMC7334572 DOI: 10.1016/j.conctc.2020.100607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Revised: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Nearly all individuals with Down Syndrome (DS) display pathology associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD) beginning as early as age 30. Previous research in typically developed adults suggests that increased moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) may improve cognitive function and protect against age-related structural and functional changes in the brain; however, the potential impact of increased MVPA on the development of AD in adults with DS has not been evaluated. Despite the potential positive impact of MVPA on cognition and AD risk, participation in MVPA among young adults with DS is low. The limited research evaluating strategies for increasing MVPA in adults with DS has been unsuccessful in increasing MVPA. Results from our preliminary investigation where we remotely delivered real-time MVPA, led by a trained health educator, to groups of adults with DS in their homes via video conferencing on a tablet computer demonstrated high attendance, increased MVPA during group sessions, and improvements in cognitive function. However, the sustainability, impact on total daily MVPA, optimal session frequency, and potential impacts on cognitive function and brain health of remotely delivered group MVPA sessions in adults with DS are unknown. Therefore, we will conduct a trial in 80 non-demented adults with DS to determine the feasibility and potential efficacy of remotely delivered group MVPA sessions to increase daily MVPA, relative to a usual care control. Secondarily we will assess the impact of MVPA on cardiovascular fitness, quality of life, cognitive function and brain parameters related to AD. NCT REGISTRATION NCT04048759.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren T. Ptomey
- Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Kansas Medical Center, 3901 Rainbow Boulevard, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA
| | - Amanda N. Szabo-Reed
- Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Kansas Medical Center, 3901 Rainbow Boulevard, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA
| | - Laura E. Martin
- Department of Population Health, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
- Hoglund Biomedical Imaging Center, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Matthew S. Mayo
- Department of Biostatistics & Data Science, University of Kansas Medical Center, USA
| | - Richard A. Washburn
- Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Kansas Medical Center, 3901 Rainbow Boulevard, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA
| | - Anna M. Gorczyca
- Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Kansas Medical Center, 3901 Rainbow Boulevard, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA
| | - Rebecca J. Lepping
- Hoglund Biomedical Imaging Center, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Phill Lee
- Department of Radiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Daniel E. Forsha
- Ward Family Heart Center, Children's Mercy Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Joseph R. Sherman
- Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Kansas Medical Center, 3901 Rainbow Boulevard, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA
| | - Jessica C. Danon
- Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Kansas Medical Center, 3901 Rainbow Boulevard, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA
| | - Joseph E. Donnelly
- Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Kansas Medical Center, 3901 Rainbow Boulevard, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA
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22
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The Tendency of Modified Electroconvulsive Therapy-Related Working Memory and Subjective Memory Deficits in Depression: A Prospective Follow-up Study. J ECT 2020; 36:198-204. [PMID: 32118689 DOI: 10.1097/yct.0000000000000668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to explore the tendency of modified electroconvulsive therapy (MECT)-related working memory and subjective memory deficits in depressed patients. METHODS Sixty patients with unipolar/bipolar depression were prepared and enrolled for MECT and 56 subjects were enrolled as healthy controls (HCs). Their demographics (sex, age, body mass index, years of schooling, etc) and clinical characteristics (dosage and number of MECT, etc) were compared. Depression severity, working memory, and subjective memory were measured using the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale 17 (HAMD17), a Digit Span Backwards (DSB), and self-reported assessments, respectively. Measurements were taken at baseline, within 24 hours after each MECT session, and in every month for a 6-month follow-up period. RESULTS (a) The patients had poorer performance than the HCs on DSB and HAMD17 at baseline, and the DSB score and HAMD17 total scores were negatively correlated. However, after the second MECT session, the patients' HAMD17 score was significantly improved compared with that at the baseline (P < 0.05), whereas the DSB score showed no significant difference compared with the HCs (P > 0.05). (b) After the first MECT session, 62% of the patients reported subjective memory deficits, which were exacerbated over the subsequent sessions and relieved with antidepressant treatment during the follow-up period. (c) The risk factors for prolonged subjective memory deficits were overweight and the maximum MECT dosage/age (dosage/age = the percentage of output part of total dosage × 100/age, unit: 1/year) ≥ 1.5/year (odds ratio [OR] = 15.36 and 7.98). CONCLUSIONS Depressed patients showed poorer working memory than the HCs. Such memory deficit may be aggravated by MECT, although it may improve with the relief of depression. Although subjective memory deficits can occur after the first MECT session and gradually recover after the treatment, they may last for 6 months or longer. Persistent deficits may be related to being overweight and having a high MECT dosage.
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23
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Kjær K, Jørgensen MB, Hageman I, Miskowiak KW, Wörtwein G. The effect of erythropoietin on electroconvulsive stimulation induced cognitive impairment in rats. Behav Brain Res 2020; 382:112484. [PMID: 31954736 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2020.112484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2019] [Revised: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is the most effective and fast-acting treatment for severe depression but associated with troublesome cognitive side-effects. Systemically administered erythropoietin (EPO) crosses the blood-brain-barrier and is a promising treatment for cognitive dysfunction in a wide array of neuropsychiatric and neurological disorders. In this study we trained rats to locate a submerged platform in a water maze and then subjected them to electroconvulsive stimulations (ECS, the rodent equivalent to ECT) and EPO treatment. We then analysed their ability to remember and relearn the location of the platform. In addition, we examined "wall-clinging" (thigmotaxis), a behavioural indicator of stress. ECS caused significant deficit in a probe trial administered after three weeks (nine stimulations) as well as one week (six stimulations) of treatment, indicative of induction of retrograde amnesia. ECS had no effect on relearning of the water maze task or performance in a subsequent probe trial. EPO treatment did not ameliorate the ECS-induced retrograde amnesia, but after nine ECS stimulations the animals that had received EPO relearned the position of the hidden platform faster than the animals that had not. We also found EPO to decrease "wall-clinging" behaviour, suggesting an effect of EPO on the stress response in rats. Thus, we establish the Morris Water Maze as a suitable model for ECS-induced memory loss in rats and provide some evidence for potential beneficial effects of EPO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristian Kjær
- Laboratory of Neuropsychiatry, Psychiatric Centre Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Ida Hageman
- Department O, Psychiatric Centre Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kamilla Woznica Miskowiak
- Copenhagen Affective Disorder Research Centre (CADIC), Psychiatric Centre Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Psychology, University of Copenhagen, 1353, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Gitta Wörtwein
- Laboratory of Neuropsychiatry, Psychiatric Centre Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, 1014, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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24
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Sigström R, Nordenskjöld A, Juréus A, Clements C, Joas E, Pålsson E, Landén M. Long-term subjective memory after electroconvulsive therapy. BJPsych Open 2020; 6:e26. [PMID: 32148217 PMCID: PMC7176828 DOI: 10.1192/bjo.2020.9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There have been reports of long-term subjective memory worsening after electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). AIMS To study the prevalence and risk factors of long-term subjective memory worsening among patients receiving ECT in routine clinical practice. METHOD Patients (n = 535, of whom 277 were included in the final analysis) were recruited from eight Swedish hospitals. Participants' subjective memory impairment was assessed before ECT and a median of 73 days after ECT using the memory item from the Comprehensive Psychopathological Rating Scale. Participants also rated their pre-ECT expectations and post-ECT evaluations of the effect of ECT on memory on a 7-point scale. We used ordinal regression to identify variables associated with subjective memory worsening and negative evaluations of the effect of ECT on memory. RESULTS Comparisons of pre- and post-ECT assessments showed that subjective memory worsened in 16.2% of participants, remained unchanged in 52.3% and improved in 31.4%. By contrast, when asked to evaluate the effect of ECT on memory after treatment 54.6% reported a negative effect. Subjective memory worsening was associated with negative expectations before ECT, younger age and shorter duration of follow-up. CONCLUSIONS Although subjective memory improved more often than it worsened when assessed before and after ECT, a majority of patients reported that ECT had negative effects on their memory when retrospectively asked how ECT had affected it. This might suggest that some patients attribute pre-existing subjective memory impairment to ECT. Clinicians should be aware that negative expectations are associated with subjective worsening of memory after ECT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Sigström
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Axel Nordenskjöld
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University Health Care Research Center, Örebro University, Sweden
| | - Anders Juréus
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden
| | | | - Erik Joas
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Erik Pålsson
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Mikael Landén
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg; and Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden
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25
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Shilton T, Enoch-Levy A, Giron Y, Yaroslavsky A, Amiaz R, Gothelf D, Weizman A, Stein D. A retrospective case series of electroconvulsive therapy in the management of comorbid depression and anorexia nervosa. Int J Eat Disord 2020; 53:210-218. [PMID: 31639233 DOI: 10.1002/eat.23181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2019] [Revised: 08/17/2019] [Accepted: 08/31/2019] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Major depressive disorder (MDD) is common in anorexia nervosa (AN), associated with worse outcome and greater suicide risk. Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is highly effective in the treatment of MDD refractory to antidepressive treatment. We describe a case series of female adolescents with AN receiving ECT for MDD resistant to treatment and/or with severe suicide risk. METHOD We retrospectively analyzed the files of all 30 adolescent females hospitalized in our department because of AN between 1998 and 2017 and treated with ECT. Severity of eating disorder (ED) and depressive symptoms was retrospectively assessed using the Clinical Global Impression-Severity Scale. RESULTS Patients were severely depressed and suicidal on admission. All were resistant to antidepressants. A significant deterioration in depression, with severe suicidality, occurred from admission to pre-ECT, with concomitant improvement in ED symptoms and increase in body mass index (BMI). Significant improvement in depressive and ED symptoms and increase in BMI occurred following ECT, continuing to discharge. Adverse effects were mostly minimal. Fifty-three percentage of the patients were rehospitalized within the first year after ECT, mostly because of deterioration of depression and attempted suicide. Several years after discharge, 46.6% of the patients had no evidence of depression, suicidality, and ED-symptomatology, and another 23% had only evidence of ED symptomatology. DISCUSSION ECT is safe and well tolerated in AN with severe comorbid treatment resistant MDD and/or with increased suicide risk. Many AN patients undergoing ECT may be remitted at long-term follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tal Shilton
- Pediatric Psychosomatic Department, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Edmond and Lily Safra Children's Hospital, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Adi Enoch-Levy
- Pediatric Psychosomatic Department, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Edmond and Lily Safra Children's Hospital, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel
| | - Yanai Giron
- Pediatric Psychosomatic Department, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Edmond and Lily Safra Children's Hospital, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel
| | - Amit Yaroslavsky
- Pediatric Psychosomatic Department, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Edmond and Lily Safra Children's Hospital, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel
| | - Revital Amiaz
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.,Department of Psychiatry, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel
| | - Doron Gothelf
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.,Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Outpatient Service, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Edmond and Lily Safra Children's Hospital, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel
| | - Abraham Weizman
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.,Felsenstein Medical Research Center, Rabin Campus, Petach Tiqva, Israel
| | - Daniel Stein
- Pediatric Psychosomatic Department, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Edmond and Lily Safra Children's Hospital, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel.,Department of Psychiatry, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel
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26
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Su L, Jia Y, Liang S, Shi S, Mellor D, Xu Y. Multicenter randomized controlled trial of bifrontal, bitemporal, and right unilateral electroconvulsive therapy in major depressive disorder. Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2019; 73:636-641. [PMID: 31260569 DOI: 10.1111/pcn.12907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2018] [Revised: 05/02/2019] [Accepted: 06/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
AIM Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) has been shown to be the most effective and rapid treatment for severe depression. Electrode placement is one of the most important factors that affect ECT's efficacy and side-effects profile. Bifrontal, bitemporal, and unilateral are the three most used electrode placements. Very few studies have directly compared the efficacy and cognitive side-effects of the three placements. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy and cognitive side-effects associated with bifrontal, bitemporal, and unilateral electrode placements. METHODS This multicenter randomized, blinded, controlled trial included 40 patients in each of the three groups. Most of the patients (94.8%) completed six ECT treatments. We used mixed-model analyses to compare differences in 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD-17) and Clinical Global Impression (CGI) scores among the three groups and the five times series (baseline, Week 1, Week 2, Week 3, and Week 4). The cognitive outcome was Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score. RESULTS HAMD-17 and CGI scores did not differ significantly across the groups (HAMD-17 scores: z = -1.13, P = 0.259; CGI scores: z = -0.35, P = 0.729). MMSE scores at pre- and post-ECT were similar across the three groups (F = 2.06, P = 0.133). However, subgroup analysis using paired t-tests showed that MMSE scores improved in the right unilateral and bifrontal groups (t = 2.745, P = 0.0098; t = 2.464, P = 0.0204), but did not change in the bitemporal group (t = 1.188, P = 0.2461). CONCLUSION The efficacy of right unilateral and bifrontal ECT placement was similar to that of bitemporal ECT. The physical side-effects were also similar across the three groups. Right unilateral and bifrontal ECT placement were associated with improved cognitive outcomes, but bitemporal ECT placement was not.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Su
- Department of Psychiatry, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Department of Psychiatry, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuping Jia
- Department of Psychiatry, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shiqiao Liang
- Department of Psychiatry, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shenxun Shi
- Department of Psychiatry, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - David Mellor
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Yifeng Xu
- Department of Psychiatry, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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27
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Arnold NR, Bayen UJ. Prospective Memory: Comparing Self- and Proxy-Reports with Cognitive Modeling of Task Performance. JOURNAL OF APPLIED RESEARCH IN MEMORY AND COGNITION 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jarmac.2019.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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28
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Abstract
Aims and methodFew studies have looked at subjective memory impairment from electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) after treatment completion. We aimed to systematically review all available evidence for subjective post-treatment effects. RESULTS: We included 16 studies in this review. There was considerable between-study heterogeneity in clinical population, ECT modality and assessment scales used. The most common assessment scale (eight studies) was the Squire Subjective Memory Questionnaire. The majority of studies reported an improvement in subjective memory after ECT, which correlated with improved depression scores. Subjective complaints were fewer in studies that used ultra-brief pulse ECT. Longer pulse widths were associated with more subjective complaints, as was female gender and younger age of treatment in the largest study.Clinical implicationsThere is considerable heterogeneity between studies, limiting meaningful conclusions. Ultra-brief pulse ECT appears to result in fewer subjective complaints.Declaration of interestNone.
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29
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Lin YC, Wang YP. Status of Noninvasive Brain Stimulation in the Therapy of Alzheimer's Disease. Chin Med J (Engl) 2019; 131:2899-2903. [PMID: 30539900 PMCID: PMC6302656 DOI: 10.4103/0366-6999.247217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Cong Lin
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University; Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuromodulation, Beijing 100053, China
| | - Yu-Ping Wang
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University; Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuromodulation, Beijing 100053; Center of Epilepsy, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
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30
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Gbyl K, Videbech P. Electroconvulsive therapy increases brain volume in major depression: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Acta Psychiatr Scand 2018; 138:180-195. [PMID: 29707778 DOI: 10.1111/acps.12884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The main purpose of this review was to synthesise evidence on ECT's effects on brain's structure. METHOD A systematic literature review of longitudinal studies of depressed patients treated with ECT using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and meta-analysis of ECT's effect on hippocampal volume. RESULTS Thirty-two studies with 467 patients and 285 controls were included. The MRI studies did not find any evidence of ECT-related brain damage. All but one of the newer MRI volumetric studies found ECT-induced volume increases in certain brain areas, most consistently in hippocampus. Meta-analysis of effect of ECT on hippocampal volume yielded pooled effect size: g = 0.39 (95% CI = 0.18-0.61) for the right hippocampus and g = 0.31 (95% CI = 0.09-0.53) for the left. The DTI studies point to an ECT-induced increase in the integrity of white matter pathways in the frontal and temporal lobes. The results of correlations between volume increases and treatment efficacy were inconsistent. CONCLUSION The MRI studies do not support the hypothesis that ECT causes brain damage; on the contrary, the treatment induces volume increases in fronto-limbic areas. Further studies should explore the relationship between these increases and treatment effect and cognitive side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Gbyl
- Centre for Neuropsychiatric Depression Research, Mental Health Centre Glostrup, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - P Videbech
- Centre for Neuropsychiatric Depression Research, Mental Health Centre Glostrup, Glostrup, Denmark
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31
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Schmidt LS, Petersen JZ, Vinberg M, Hageman I, Olsen NV, Kessing LV, Jørgensen MB, Miskowiak KW. Erythropoietin as an add-on treatment for cognitive side effects of electroconvulsive therapy: a study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Trials 2018; 19:234. [PMID: 29673379 PMCID: PMC5909268 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-018-2627-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2017] [Accepted: 04/03/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is the most effective treatment for severe depression, but its use is impeded by its cognitive side effects. Novel treatments that can counteract these side effects may therefore improve current treatment strategies for depression. The present randomized trial investigates (1) whether short-term add-on treatment with erythropoietin (EPO) can reduce the cognitive side -effects of ECT and (2) whether such effects are long-lasting. Further, structural and functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) will be used to explore the neural underpinnings of such beneficial effects of EPO. Finally, the trial examines whether potential protective effects of EPO on cognition are accompanied by changes in markers of oxidative stress, inflammation, and neuroplasticity. Methods/design The trial has a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, parallel group design. Patients with unipolar or bipolar disorder with current moderate to severe depression referred to ECT (N = 52) are randomized to receive four high-dose infusions of EPO (40,000 IU/ml) or placebo (saline). The first EPO/saline infusion is administered within 24 h before the first ECT. The following three infusions are administered at weekly intervals immediately after ECT sessions 1, 4, and 7. Cognition assessments are conducted at baseline, after the final EPO/saline infusion (3 days after eight ECT sessions), and at a 3 months follow-up after ECT treatment completion. The neuronal substrates for potential cognitive benefits of EPO are investigated with structural and functional MRI after the final EPO/saline infusion. The primary outcome is change from baseline to after EPO treatment (3 days after eight ECT sessions) in a cognitive composite score spanning attention, psychomotor speed, and executive functions. With a sample size of N = 52 (n = 26 per group), we have ≥ 80% power to detect a clinically relevant between-group difference in the primary outcome measure at an alpha level of 5% (two-sided test). Behavioral, mood, and blood-biomarker data will be analyzed using repeated measures analysis of covariance. Functional MRI data will be preprocessed and analyzed using the FMRIB Software Library. Discussion If EPO is found to reduce the cognitive side effects of ECT, this could have important implications for future treatment strategies for depression and for the scientific understanding of the neurobiological etiology of cognitive dysfunction in patients treated with ECT. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03339596. Registered on 10 November 2017. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13063-018-2627-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lejla Sjanic Schmidt
- Copenhagen Affective Disorder Research Center (CADIC), Psychiatric Center Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Neurocognition and Emotion in Affective Disorder (NEAD) Group, Copenhagen Affective Disorder Research Center, Psychiatric Center Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, DK-2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jeff Zarp Petersen
- Copenhagen Affective Disorder Research Center (CADIC), Psychiatric Center Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Psychology, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 2A, DK-1353, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Maj Vinberg
- Copenhagen Affective Disorder Research Center (CADIC), Psychiatric Center Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ida Hageman
- Copenhagen Affective Disorder Research Center (CADIC), Psychiatric Center Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Niels Vidiendal Olsen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Neuroanaesthesia, The Neuroscience Centre, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lars Vedel Kessing
- Copenhagen Affective Disorder Research Center (CADIC), Psychiatric Center Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Martin Balslev Jørgensen
- Copenhagen Affective Disorder Research Center (CADIC), Psychiatric Center Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kamilla Woznica Miskowiak
- Copenhagen Affective Disorder Research Center (CADIC), Psychiatric Center Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark. .,Department of Psychology, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 2A, DK-1353, Copenhagen, Denmark. .,Neurocognition and Emotion in Affective Disorder (NEAD) Group, Copenhagen Affective Disorder Research Center, Psychiatric Center Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, DK-2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Rajkumar AP, Petit CP, Rachana A, Deinde F, Shyamsundar G, Thangadurai P, Jacob KS. Correlates of self-reported, autobiographical, and mini-mental status examination defined memory deficits following electroconvulsive therapy in South India. Asian J Psychiatr 2018; 34:47-53. [PMID: 29635223 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajp.2018.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2017] [Revised: 03/08/2018] [Accepted: 04/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cognitive deficits, self-reported or found following electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), and their correlates are diverse. Despite the characteristics of people receiving ECT in Asia differ widely from the west, pertinent research from Asia remains sparse. METHODS We investigated the correlates of self-reported, mini-mental status examination (MMSE) defined, and autobiographical memory deficits in a cohort that received ECT in a south Indian tertiary-care setting. 76 consecutive consenting people were recruited within seven days of completing their ECT course. Memory was assessed by a subjective Likert scale, MMSE, and an autobiographical memory scale (AMS). Psychopathology was assessed by brief psychiatric rating scale, and serum cortisol levels were estimated by chemi-luminescence immunoassays. Relevant sociodemographic and clinical data were collected from the participants, and their medical records. The correlates were analysed using generalised linear models after adjusting for the effects of potential confounders. RESULTS Self-reported, MMSE-defined, and autobiographical memory deficits were present in 27.6% (95%CI 17.6-37.7%), 42.1% (95%CI 31.0-53.2%), and 36.8% (95%CI 26.0-47.7%) of participants, respectively. Agreement between the memory deficits was poor. Age, less education, duration of illness, hypothyroidism, and past history of another ECT course were significantly associated with MMSE-defined deficits. Age, anaemia, past ECT course, and pre-ECT blood pressure were significantly associated with autobiographical memory deficits, while residual psychopathology and cortisol levels were significantly associated with self-reported memory deficits. CONCLUSION Self-reported, MMSE-defined, and autobiographical memory deficits are common at the completion of ECT course, and their correlates differ. All service users receiving ECT need periodic cognitive assessments evaluating multiple cognitive domains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anto P Rajkumar
- Department of Old Age Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, & Neuroscience, King's College London, 16, De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF, United Kingdom; South London and Maudsley NHS foundation Trust, Bethlem Royal Hospital, Monks Orchard Road, Beckenham, BR3 3BX, United Kingdom; Department of Psychiatry, Christian Medical College, Vellore, 632002, India.
| | - Cheryl P Petit
- Department of Psychiatry, Christian Medical College, Vellore, 632002, India
| | - Arun Rachana
- Department of Psychiatry, Christian Medical College, Vellore, 632002, India
| | - Funmi Deinde
- South London and Maudsley NHS foundation Trust, Bethlem Royal Hospital, Monks Orchard Road, Beckenham, BR3 3BX, United Kingdom
| | - G Shyamsundar
- Department of Psychiatry, Christian Medical College, Vellore, 632002, India
| | - P Thangadurai
- Department of Psychiatry, Christian Medical College, Vellore, 632002, India
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Palanca BJA, Maybrier HR, Mickle AM, Farber NB, Hogan RE, Trammel ER, Spencer JW, Bohnenkamp DD, Wildes TS, Ching S, Lenze E, Basner M, Kelz MB, Avidan MS. Cognitive and Neurophysiological Recovery Following Electroconvulsive Therapy: A Study Protocol. Front Psychiatry 2018; 9:171. [PMID: 29867602 PMCID: PMC5960711 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2018.00171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2018] [Accepted: 04/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) employs the elective induction of generalizes seizures as a potent treatment for severe psychiatric illness. As such, ECT provides an opportunity to rigorously study the recovery of consciousness, reconstitution of cognition, and electroencephalographic (EEG) activity following seizures. Fifteen patients with major depressive disorder refractory to pharmacologic therapy will be enrolled (Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT02761330). Adequate seizure duration will be confirmed following right unilateral ECT under etomidate anesthesia. Patients will then undergo randomization for the order in which they will receive three sequential treatments: etomidate + ECT, ketamine + ECT, and ketamine + sham ECT. Sessions will be repeated in the same sequence for a total of six treatments. Before each session, sensorimotor speed, working memory, and executive function will be assessed through a standardized cognitive test battery. After each treatment, the return of purposeful responsiveness to verbal command will be determined. At this point, serial cognitive assessments will begin using the same standardized test battery. The presence of delirium and changes in depression severity will also be ascertained. Sixty-four channel EEG will be acquired throughout baseline, ictal, and postictal epochs. Mixed-effects models will correlate the trajectories of cognitive recovery, clinical outcomes, and EEG metrics over time. This innovative research design will answer whether: (1) time to return of responsiveness will be prolonged with ketamine + ECT compared with ketamine + sham ECT; (2) time of restoration to baseline function in each cognitive domain will take longer after ketamine + ECT than after ketamine + sham ECT; (3) postictal delirium is associated with delayed restoration of baseline function in all cognitive domains; and (4) the sequence of reconstitution of cognitive domains following the three treatments in this study is similar to that occurring after an isoflurane general anesthetic (NCT01911195). Sub-studies will assess the relationships of cognitive recovery to the EEG preceding, concurrent, and following individual ECT sessions. Overall, this study will lead the development of biomarkers for tailoring the cogno-affective recovery of patients undergoing ECT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben J A Palanca
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St Louis, MO, United States.,Division of Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St Louis, MO, United States
| | - Hannah R Maybrier
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St Louis, MO, United States
| | - Angela M Mickle
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St Louis, MO, United States
| | - Nuri B Farber
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St Louis, MO, United States
| | - R Edward Hogan
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St Louis, MO, United States
| | - Emma R Trammel
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St Louis, MO, United States
| | - J Wylie Spencer
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St Louis, MO, United States
| | - Donald D Bohnenkamp
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St Louis, MO, United States
| | - Troy S Wildes
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St Louis, MO, United States
| | - ShiNung Ching
- Division of Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St Louis, MO, United States.,Department of Electrical Systems and Engineering, Washington University, St Louis, MO, United States
| | - Eric Lenze
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St Louis, MO, United States
| | - Mathias Basner
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Max B Kelz
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Michael S Avidan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St Louis, MO, United States.,Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St Louis, MO, United States
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Moirand R, Galvao F, Lecompte M, Poulet E, Haesebaert F, Brunelin J. Usefulness of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) to monitor cognitive impairments in depressed patients receiving electroconvulsive therapy. Psychiatry Res 2018; 259:476-481. [PMID: 29149717 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2017.11.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2017] [Revised: 10/27/2017] [Accepted: 11/06/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
There is a lack of consensual tools for evaluating the cognitive side-effects in patients with depression who are treated with electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). The objective of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and of the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) to monitor cognitive changes in patients with depression receiving ECT. Cognitive functioning was assessed prospectively in 48 patients with unipolar or bipolar depression before and after an ECT course. ECT-induced cognitive impairments were defined as a decrease of at least 2 points on the MoCA and the MMSE total scores and of at least one point on each sub-score. At baseline, the MoCA detected a higher number of patients with cognitive deficits than the MMSE. After ECT, the MoCA and MMSE total scores were comparable, but the MoCA detected more impairments than did the MMSE for visuo-executive, memory and language subscores. ECT significantly decreased the language capacities but improved the visuo-executive and abstraction performances measured by MoCA. In remitters, the MoCA total score and visuo-executive and abstraction performances were significantly improved, while other cognitive functions remained unchanged. The MoCA is a useful screening tool for monitoring cognitive functioning during an ECT course.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rémi Moirand
- INSERM, U1028, Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, PSY-R2 Team, Lyon F-69000, France; CNRS, UMR5292, Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, PSY-R2 Team, Lyon F-69000, France; University Lyon, F-69000, France; Centre Hospitalier le Vinatier, Batiment 416, 95 Bd Pinel, 69678 Bron, France.
| | - Filipe Galvao
- INSERM, U1028, Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, PSY-R2 Team, Lyon F-69000, France; CNRS, UMR5292, Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, PSY-R2 Team, Lyon F-69000, France; University Lyon, F-69000, France; Centre Hospitalier le Vinatier, Batiment 416, 95 Bd Pinel, 69678 Bron, France
| | - Maxime Lecompte
- Centre Hospitalier le Vinatier, Batiment 416, 95 Bd Pinel, 69678 Bron, France
| | - Emmanuel Poulet
- INSERM, U1028, Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, PSY-R2 Team, Lyon F-69000, France; CNRS, UMR5292, Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, PSY-R2 Team, Lyon F-69000, France; University Lyon, F-69000, France; Centre Hospitalier le Vinatier, Batiment 416, 95 Bd Pinel, 69678 Bron, France; Department of Emergency Psychiatry, Edouard Herriot Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Frédéric Haesebaert
- INSERM, U1028, Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, PSY-R2 Team, Lyon F-69000, France; CNRS, UMR5292, Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, PSY-R2 Team, Lyon F-69000, France; University Lyon, F-69000, France; Centre Hospitalier le Vinatier, Batiment 416, 95 Bd Pinel, 69678 Bron, France
| | - Jerome Brunelin
- INSERM, U1028, Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, PSY-R2 Team, Lyon F-69000, France; CNRS, UMR5292, Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, PSY-R2 Team, Lyon F-69000, France; University Lyon, F-69000, France; Centre Hospitalier le Vinatier, Batiment 416, 95 Bd Pinel, 69678 Bron, France
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Abstract
Brain stimulation techniques can modulate cognitive functions in many neuropsychiatric diseases. Pilot studies have shown promising effects of brain stimulations on Alzheimer's disease (AD). Brain stimulations can be categorized into non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) and invasive brain stimulation (IBS). IBS includes deep brain stimulation (DBS), and invasive vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), whereas NIBS includes transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS), electroconvulsive treatment (ECT), magnetic seizure therapy (MST), cranial electrostimulation (CES), and non-invasive VNS. We reviewed the cutting-edge research on these brain stimulation techniques and discussed their therapeutic effects on AD. Both IBS and NIBS may have potential to be developed as novel treatments for AD; however, mixed findings may result from different study designs, patients selection, population, or samples sizes. Therefore, the efficacy of NIBS and IBS in AD remains uncertain, and needs to be further investigated. Moreover, more standardized study designs with larger sample sizes and longitudinal follow-up are warranted for establishing a structural guide for future studies and clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Hung Chang
- Institute of Clinical Medical Science, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.,Department of Psychiatry & Brain Disease Research Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Hsien-Yuan Lane
- Institute of Clinical Medical Science, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.,Department of Psychiatry & Brain Disease Research Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.,Department of Psychology, College of Medical and Health Sciences, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chieh-Hsin Lin
- Institute of Clinical Medical Science, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.,Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
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36
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Stojanovic Z, Andric S, Soldatovic I, Dolic M, Spiric Z, Maric NP. Executive function in treatment-resistant depression before and after electroconvulsive therapy. World J Biol Psychiatry 2017; 18:624-632. [PMID: 27072874 DOI: 10.3109/15622975.2016.1174299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to examine executive functions (EF) in patients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) before and after bitemporal electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and to evaluate possible associations between the depression severity and executive tasks performances. METHODS Patients (n = 29), treated with bitemporal ECT, underwent assessment at three time points: baseline, immediately after ECT course and 1 month later. The Stockings of Cambridge (SOC, CANTAB) was used to assess EF: (1) number of problems solved in minimum moves (SOC-P), (2) initial thinking time (SOC-I) and (3) subsequent thinking time (SOC-T). RESULTS The scores on the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale and the Clinical Global Impression scale were significantly reduced over time, with no negative effects on the EF. Among SOC subtests, only SOC-I improved over time, which was significantly correlated with the depressive symptoms reduction. SOC-T and SOC-P remained unchanged and did not correlate with mood. Interestingly, the patients with more lifetime psychiatric hospitalisations and more ECT applications were more likely to drop-out and to have longer SOC-T while performing the test. CONCLUSIONS Our results support the view that ECT does not produce long-lasting EF deficits, nor exacerbates the pre-existing ones. The improvement of the EF performances during and after the ECT-induced alleviation of mood symptoms in TRD is based mostly on the reduction of time needed to plan the problem solution.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sanja Andric
- b Clinic for Psychiatry Clinical Center of Serbia , Belgrade , Serbia
| | - Ivan Soldatovic
- c School of Medicine, University of Belgrade , Belgrade , Serbia
| | - Mirko Dolic
- a Clinic for Psychiatry , Military Medical Academy , Belgrade , Serbia
| | - Zeljko Spiric
- a Clinic for Psychiatry , Military Medical Academy , Belgrade , Serbia.,d Faculty of Medicine of the Military Medical Academy , University of Defense , Belgrade , Serbia
| | - Nadja P Maric
- b Clinic for Psychiatry Clinical Center of Serbia , Belgrade , Serbia.,c School of Medicine, University of Belgrade , Belgrade , Serbia
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37
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES The risk of cognitive impairment is a concern for patients with major depressive disorder receiving electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Here, we evaluate the acute, short-term and long-term effects of ECT on tests of processing speed, executive function, memory, and attention. METHODS Forty-four patients with major depressive disorder receiving ECT (61% right unilateral, 39% mixed right unilateral-bitemporal, left unilateral, and/or bitemporal lead placement) underwent a cognitive battery prior to ECT (T1), after 2 sessions (T2), and at the end of the index (T3). Thirty-two patients returned for a 6-month follow-up (T4). Thirty-three control subjects were assessed at 2 times approximately 4 weeks apart (C1 and C2). RESULTS At baseline, patients showed deficits in processing speed, executive function, and memory compared with control subjects. Including depression severity and lead placement covariates, linear mixed-model analysis showed significant improvement in only processing speed between T1 and T3 and between T1 and T4 in patients. An acute decline in attention and verbal memory was observed at T2, but performance returned to baseline levels at T3. Longitudinal cognitive outcomes did not differ in patients defined as ECT responders/nonresponders. LIMITATIONS Episodic memory was not measured, and medications were not controlled between T3 and T4. Control subjects also showed improvements in processing speed, suggesting practice effects for some measures. CONCLUSIONS In this naturalistic ECT treatment study, results show that the initiation of ECT may transiently affect memory and executive function, but cognition is largely unaffected during and after ECT. Whereas some functions might improve, others will at least remain stable up to 6 months following the ECT index.
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38
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Liu S, Sheng J, Li B, Zhang X. Recent Advances in Non-invasive Brain Stimulation for Major Depressive Disorder. Front Hum Neurosci 2017; 11:526. [PMID: 29163106 PMCID: PMC5681844 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2017.00526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2017] [Accepted: 10/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-invasive brain stimulation (NBS) is a promising treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD), which is an affective processing disorder involving abnormal emotional processing. Many studies have shown that repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) over the prefrontal cortex can play a regulatory role in affective processing. Although the clinical efficacy of NBS in MDD has been demonstrated clinically, the precise mechanism of action remains unclear. Therefore, this review article summarizes the current status of NBS methods, including rTMS and tDCS, in the treatment of MDD. The article explores possible correlations between depressive symptoms and affective processing, highlighting the relevant affective processing mechanisms. Our review provides a reference for the safety and efficacy of NBS methods in the clinical treatment of MDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shui Liu
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory on Molecular and Chemical Genetics, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jiyao Sheng
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory on Molecular and Chemical Genetics, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Bingjin Li
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory on Molecular and Chemical Genetics, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xuewen Zhang
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory on Molecular and Chemical Genetics, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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39
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Cognitive Performance Under Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) in ECT-Naive Treatment-Resistant Patients With Major Depressive Disorder. J ECT 2017; 33:104-110. [PMID: 28169947 DOI: 10.1097/yct.0000000000000385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Although electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is considered a safe and highly effective treatment option for major depressive disorder, there are still some reservations with regard to possible adverse cognitive adverse effects. This is the case despite a large body of evidence showing that these deficits are transient and that there even seems to be a long-term improvement of cognitive functioning level. However, most data concerning cognitive adverse effects stem from studies using mixed samples of treatment-resistant and non-treatment-resistant as well as ECT-naive and non-ECT-naive subjects. Furthermore, neurocognitive measures might partly be sensitive to practice effects and improvements in depressive symptom level. METHODS We examined neurocognitive performance in a sample of 20 treatment-resistant and ECT-naive subjects using repeatable neurocognitive tests, whereas changes in depressive symptom level were controlled. Cognitive functioning level was assessed before (baseline), 1 week, and 6 months (follow-up 1 and 2) after (12 to) 15 sessions of unilateral ECT treatment. RESULTS No adverse cognitive effects were observed in any of the cognitive domains examined. Instead, a significant improvement in verbal working memory performance was found from baseline to follow-up 2. When changes in depressive symptom levels were controlled statistically, this improvement was no longer seen. CONCLUSIONS Although findings that ECT does not lead to longer lasting cognitive deficits caused by ECT were confirmed, our study adds evidence that previous results of a beneficial effect of ECT on cognition might be questioned.
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40
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Fernie G, Currie J, Perrin JS, Stewart CA, Anderson V, Bennett DM, Hay S, Reid IC. Ketamine as the anaesthetic for electroconvulsive therapy: the KANECT randomised controlled trial. Br J Psychiatry 2017; 210:422-428. [PMID: 28254962 PMCID: PMC5451642 DOI: 10.1192/bjp.bp.116.189134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2016] [Revised: 10/18/2016] [Accepted: 11/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BackgroundKetamine has recently become an agent of interest as an acute treatment for severe depression and as the anaesthetic for electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Subanaesthetic doses result in an acute reduction in depression severity while evidence is equivocal for this antidepressant effect with anaesthetic or adjuvant doses. Recent systematic reviews call for high-quality evidence from further randomised controlled trials (RCTs).AimsTo establish if ketamine as the anaesthetic for ECT results in fewer ECT treatments, improvements in depression severity ratings and less memory impairment than the standard anaesthetic.MethodDouble-blind, parallel-design, RCT of intravenous ketamine (up to 2 mg/kg) with an active comparator, intravenous propofol (up to 2.5 mg/kg), as the anaesthetic for ECT in patients receiving ECT for major depression on an informal basis. (Trial registration: European Clinical Trials Database (EudraCT): 2011-000396-14 and clinicalTrials.gov: NCT01306760)ResultsNo significant differences were found on any outcome measure during, at the end of or 1 month following the ECT course.ConclusionsKetamine as an anaesthetic does not enhance the efficacy of ECT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gordon Fernie
- Gordon Fernie, PhD, Centre for Healthcare Randomised Trials (CHaRT), Health Services Research Unit, University of Aberdeen. Aberdeen, UK; James Currie, MBChB, BSc, Jennifer S. Perrin, PhD, NHS Grampian, Royal Cornhill Hospital, Aberdeen, UK; Caroline A. Stewart, BSc, PhD, Division of Neuroscience, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK; Virginica Anderson, MD, FRCA, NHS Grampian, Royal Cornhill Hospital, Aberdeen, UK; Daniel M. Bennett, MBChB, MRCPsych, MD, MMED, Division of Applied Medicine (Psychiatry), University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen and NHS Grampian, Royal Cornhill Hospital, Aberdeen, UK; Steven Hay, MBChB, MRCPsych, NHS Grampian, Royal Cornhill Hospital, Aberdeen, UK; Ian C. Reid (deceased), PhD, MRCPsych, previously at Division of Applied Medicine (Psychiatry), University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen and NHS Grampian, Royal Cornhill Hospital, Aberdeen, UK
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41
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Abstract
ECT is the oldest and most effective therapy available for the treatment of severe major depression. It is highly effective in individuals with treatment resistance and when a rapid response is required. However, ECT is associated with memory impairment that is the most concerning side-effect of the treatment, substantially contributing to the controversy and stigmatization surrounding this highly effective treatment. There is overwhelming evidence for the efficacy and safety of an acute course of ECT for the treatment of a severe major depressive episode, as reflected by the recent FDA advisory panel recommendation to reclassify ECT devices from Class III to the lower risk category Class II. However, its application for other indications remains controversial, despite strong evidence to the contrary. This article reviews the indication of ECT for major depression, as well as for other conditions, including catatonia, mania, and acute episodes of schizophrenia. This study also reviews the growing evidence supporting the use of maintenance ECT to prevent relapse after an acute successful course of treatment. Although ECT is administered uncommonly to patients under the age of 18, the evidence supporting its use is also reviewed in this patient population. Finally, memory loss associated with ECT and efforts at more effectively monitoring and reducing it are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard D Weiner
- a Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences , Duke University School of Medicine , Durham , NC , USA
| | - Irving M Reti
- b Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences , Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore , MD , USA
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42
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Reply to Dr Martin's Letter Regarding Differences in Cognitive Outcomes After ECT Depending on BDNF and COMT Polymorphisms. J ECT 2017; 33:68-69. [PMID: 28181928 DOI: 10.1097/yct.0000000000000397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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43
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Cano M, Martínez-Zalacaín I, Bernabéu-Sanz Á, Contreras-Rodríguez O, Hernández-Ribas R, Via E, de Arriba-Arnau A, Gálvez V, Urretavizcaya M, Pujol J, Menchón JM, Cardoner N, Soriano-Mas C. Brain volumetric and metabolic correlates of electroconvulsive therapy for treatment-resistant depression: a longitudinal neuroimaging study. Transl Psychiatry 2017; 7:e1023. [PMID: 28170003 PMCID: PMC5438019 DOI: 10.1038/tp.2016.267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2016] [Revised: 10/12/2016] [Accepted: 11/13/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent research suggests that neuroplastic and neuroinflammatory changes may account for the mode of action of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), although extant data do not allow for a clear disambiguation between these two hypotheses. Multimodal neuroimaging approaches (for example, combining structural and metabolic information) may help in clarifying this issue. Here we aimed to assess longitudinal changes in (i) regional gray matter (GM) volumes and (ii) hippocampal metabolite concentrations throughout an acute course of bitemporal ECT, as well as (iii) to determine the association between imaging changes and clinical improvement. We assessed 12 patients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) at four time points (pre-treatment, after the first ECT session, after the ninth ECT session and 15 days after ECT course completion) and 10 healthy participants at two time points, 5 weeks apart. Patients with TRD showed bilateral medial temporal lobe (MTL) and perigenual anterior cingulate cortex volume increases. Left MTL volume increase was associated with (i) a hippocampal N-acetylaspartate concentration decrease, (ii) a hippocampal Glutamate+Glutamine concentration increase and (iii) significant clinical improvement. The observed findings are, in part, compatible with both neuroplastic and neuroinflammatory changes induced by ECT. We postulate that such phenomena may be interrelated, therefore reconciling the neuroplasticity and neuroinflammatory hypotheses of ECT action.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Cano
- Department of Psychiatry, Bellvitge University Hospital-IDIBELL, Barcelona, Spain,Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - I Martínez-Zalacaín
- Department of Psychiatry, Bellvitge University Hospital-IDIBELL, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Á Bernabéu-Sanz
- Magnetic Resonance Department, Inscanner SL, Alicante, Spain
| | - O Contreras-Rodríguez
- Department of Psychiatry, Bellvitge University Hospital-IDIBELL, Barcelona, Spain,Carlos III Health Institute, CIBERSAM, Madrid, Spain
| | - R Hernández-Ribas
- Department of Psychiatry, Bellvitge University Hospital-IDIBELL, Barcelona, Spain,Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain,Carlos III Health Institute, CIBERSAM, Madrid, Spain
| | - E Via
- Mental Health Department, Parc Taulí Sabadell, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - A de Arriba-Arnau
- Department of Psychiatry, Bellvitge University Hospital-IDIBELL, Barcelona, Spain
| | - V Gálvez
- School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales (UNSW) and Black Dog Institute, Randwick, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - M Urretavizcaya
- Department of Psychiatry, Bellvitge University Hospital-IDIBELL, Barcelona, Spain,Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain,Carlos III Health Institute, CIBERSAM, Madrid, Spain
| | - J Pujol
- Carlos III Health Institute, CIBERSAM, Madrid, Spain,MRI Research Unit, Radiology Department, Hospital del Mar, Barcelona, Spain
| | - J M Menchón
- Department of Psychiatry, Bellvitge University Hospital-IDIBELL, Barcelona, Spain,Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain,Carlos III Health Institute, CIBERSAM, Madrid, Spain,Department of Psychiatry, Bellvitge University Hospital-IDIBELL, Feixa Llarga s/n, Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08907 Barcelona, Spain E-mail:
| | - N Cardoner
- Mental Health Department, Parc Taulí Sabadell, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain,Mental Health Department, Parc Taulí Sabadell, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Parc Taulí 1, Sabadell, 08208 Barcelona, Spain. E-mail:
| | - C Soriano-Mas
- Department of Psychiatry, Bellvitge University Hospital-IDIBELL, Barcelona, Spain,Carlos III Health Institute, CIBERSAM, Madrid, Spain,Department of Psychobiology and Methodology in Health Sciences, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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A Brief Measure for Assessing Patient Perceptions of Cognitive Side Effects After Electroconvulsive Therapy: The Subjective Assessment of Memory Impairment. J ECT 2016; 32:256-261. [PMID: 27295463 DOI: 10.1097/yct.0000000000000329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Directly inquiring about patient experiences of memory problems after ECT may alert clinicians to the existence of treatment side effects and provide an impression of their intrusiveness. In this study, we examined use of a novel and brief patient-reported measure to assess perceptions of memory side effects and their functional consequences before and after an acute ECT treatment course. These outcomes were compared with objective cognitive and subjective quality of life measures. METHODS Data for 75 patients who were prescribed an acute course of ECT were analyzed. Subjective and objective measures were assessed before ECT (pretreatment) and at posttreatment. Patient perceptions were assessed using the Subjective Assessment of Memory Impairment, which consists of two items: The Memory Problems item, and The Impact of Cognitive Adverse Events item. Objective cognitive outcomes were assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment. Quality of life was assessed using the Quality of Life Enjoyment and Satisfaction Questionnaire-Short Form. RESULTS Patient perceptions of their memory problems did not change across the ECT course, and their functional impact were considered less intrusive after ECT. Greater functional impact of memory impairment was related to poorer quality of life at posttreatment, but not at pretreatment. Subjectively rated cognitive functioning was not associated with objective cognitive outcomes. CONCLUSIONS The Subjective Assessment of Memory Impairment is a brief tool for measuring patient-rated memory function. Overall, patients did not report any change in subjective memory problems after ECT. Although perceptions of functional memory impairment and quality of life were related after ECT, there was no association with objectively assessed cognitive outcomes.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE The study aimed to explore cognitive outcomes after electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) depending on which version of common single nucleotide polymorphisms the patient expressed for brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT). METHODS A total of 87 patients from the clinical ECT service in Aberdeen, Scotland, were included in the study. Cognitive function testing (using Spatial Recognition Memory task from the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery and Mini-Mental State Examination) and mood ratings (Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale) were performed before ECT, after 4 treatments, at the end of ECT and 1 and 3 months after the end of treatment. These scores were compared depending on BDNF and COMT variant at each time point using the Student t test and using a time series generalized least squares random effects model. RESULTS No differences were found between the val and met versions of the BDNF or COMT polymorphism in either cognitive or mood outcomes at any time point during ECT treatment or up to 3 months of follow-up. CONCLUSIONS This study did not detect significant differences in cognitive or mood outcomes between patients who have the val66val or met versions of the BDNF polymorphism. Our results suggest that these polymorphisms will not be helpful in clinical practice for predicting cognitive outcomes after ECT.
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Bodnar A, Krzywotulski M, Lewandowska A, Chlopocka-Wozniak M, Bartkowska-Sniatkowska A, Michalak M, Rybakowski JK. Electroconvulsive therapy and cognitive functions in treatment-resistant depression. World J Biol Psychiatry 2016; 17:159-64. [PMID: 26482837 DOI: 10.3109/15622975.2015.1091501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is the most effective treatment for drug-resistant depression (DRD). We estimated the short- and long-term effects of ECT on cognitive functions in patients with unipolar and bipolar DRD. METHODS We investigated 63 patients (18 male, 45 female), aged 34-75 years. Cognitive assessments were performed before, immediately after 6-12 ECT sessions, and 3 months thereafter, using the Benton Visual Retention, Trail Making (TMT), Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure (ROCF) tests, the Digit Span of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale, and the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning (RAVLT), verbal fluency and Stroop tests. RESULTS Immediately after ECT, a significant worsening was noted in some indices of memory and verbal fluency. However, 3 months after ECT, the indices of both RAVLT and verbal fluency significantly improved compared to baseline, and those of the Benton and ROCF were significantly better than before ECT. The Digit Span, Stroop and TMT were not affected by the treatment. CONCLUSIONS The negative effects of ECT on the reported measures of cognition are transient. After 3 months, the indices of memory were significantly better than before the treatment. In addition to its antidepressant effect in DRD, ECT may also exert a long-term favourable influence on some cognitive functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Bodnar
- a Department of Adult Psychiatry , Poznan University of Medical Sciences , Poznan , Poland
| | - Milosz Krzywotulski
- a Department of Adult Psychiatry , Poznan University of Medical Sciences , Poznan , Poland
| | - Anna Lewandowska
- a Department of Adult Psychiatry , Poznan University of Medical Sciences , Poznan , Poland
| | | | - Alicja Bartkowska-Sniatkowska
- b Department of Pediatric Anaesthesiology and Intensive Therapy , Poznan University of Medical Sciences , Poznan , Poland , and
| | - Michal Michalak
- c Department Computer Science and Statistics , Poznan University of Medical Sciences , Poznan , Poland
| | - Janusz K Rybakowski
- a Department of Adult Psychiatry , Poznan University of Medical Sciences , Poznan , Poland
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Assessing the Association Between Electrical Stimulation Dose, Subsequent Cognitive Function and Depression Severity in Patients Receiving Bilateral Electroconvulsive Therapy for Major Depressive Disorder. J ECT 2016; 32:159-63. [PMID: 27128722 DOI: 10.1097/yct.0000000000000321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the relationship between electrical stimulation administered to patients undergoing bilateral electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and subsequent measures of cognitive function and depression severity. METHODS Stimulus dose titrated patients receiving bilateral ECT were assessed with the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB) Spatial Recognition Memory test and Montgomery Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) at baseline, after 4 ECT treatments and on course completion. Changes in CANTAB and MADRS scores were assessed in relation to electrical dosage, initial stimulus dose, and demographic variables using linear mixed models. RESULTS Data pertained to 143 patients (mean age, 56.85 [SD, 14.94], 43% male). Median change in CANTAB score was -10% (-20% to 5%) after 4 ECT treatments and -10% (-20% to 5%) at course completion. Median change in MADRS score was -22 (-33 to -13) after 4 ECT treatments and -14 (-25 to -7) at course completion. Electrical dosage had no effect on CANTAB or MADRS change scores either after 4 treatments or course completion. Improvement in CANTAB score at end of course was associated with female sex (P < 0.05), higher intelligence quotient (P = 0.01), and age. After 4 treatments, improvement in CANTAB score was associated with younger age (P < 0.001) and higher intelligence quotient (P < 0.01). Improved MADRS score at course completion was associated with older age (P < 0.001 at end of course and after 4 treatments). CONCLUSIONS Electroconvulsive therapy has significant antidepressant and cognitive effects which are not associated with the total electrical dose administered. Other, unalterable variables, such as age and sex, have an influence on these effects.
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Ketamine Anesthesia, Efficacy of Electroconvulsive Therapy, and Cognitive Functions in Treatment-Resistant Depression. J ECT 2016; 32:164-8. [PMID: 27008330 DOI: 10.1097/yct.0000000000000317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is the most effective treatment for drug-resistant depression (DRD). Because a single infusion of ketamine may exert both a rapid antidepressant effect and a quick improvement of cognition, the aim of the present study was to assess whether ketamine, as an anesthetic drug for ECT, can augment the antidepressant activity of the procedure and/or exert a beneficial effect on cognition. METHODS A total of 11 male and 34 female patients with DRD, aged 21 to 75 years, were included in the study. Fifteen patients (group 1) received only thiopental anesthesia, 15 patients (group 2) had their second and third ECT sessions with ketamine, and 15 patients (group 3) had ketamine for the second, fourth, sixth, eighth, and tenth sessions. Depression intensity was measured by the 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale. Cognitive functions were measured before and after ECT, assessing visual-spatial abilities, verbal auditory memory, working memory, and executive functions. RESULTS Before the ECT, the mean (SD) intensity of depression was 32 (6) points on the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale and the mean number of ECT sessions was 10.8 (1.5), with no difference between groups. After the last ECT session, the intensity of depression was significantly lower in group 3, compared with group 1. Cognitive assessments after ECT showed a more marked worsening in verbal memory in patients with added ketamine anesthesia. CONCLUSIONS The addition of ketamine may be connected with better antidepressant efficacy of ECT, compared with only thiopental anesthesia. However, patients with added ketamine had worse results on some of the indices measuring verbal memory.
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Milev RV, Giacobbe P, Kennedy SH, Blumberger DM, Daskalakis ZJ, Downar J, Modirrousta M, Patry S, Vila-Rodriguez F, Lam RW, MacQueen GM, Parikh SV, Ravindran AV. Canadian Network for Mood and Anxiety Treatments (CANMAT) 2016 Clinical Guidelines for the Management of Adults with Major Depressive Disorder: Section 4. Neurostimulation Treatments. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF PSYCHIATRY. REVUE CANADIENNE DE PSYCHIATRIE 2016; 61:561-75. [PMID: 27486154 PMCID: PMC4994792 DOI: 10.1177/0706743716660033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 368] [Impact Index Per Article: 46.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Canadian Network for Mood and Anxiety Treatments (CANMAT) conducted a revision of the 2009 guidelines by updating the evidence and recommendations. The scope of the 2016 guidelines remains the management of major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults, with a target audience of psychiatrists and other mental health professionals. METHODS Using the question-answer format, we conducted a systematic literature search focusing on systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Evidence was graded using CANMAT-defined criteria for level of evidence. Recommendations for lines of treatment were based on the quality of evidence and clinical expert consensus. "Neurostimulation Treatments" is the fourth of six sections of the 2016 guidelines. RESULTS Evidence-informed responses were developed for 31 questions for 6 neurostimulation modalities: 1) transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), 2) repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), 3) electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), 4) magnetic seizure therapy (MST), 5) vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), and 6) deep brain stimulation (DBS). Most of the neurostimulation treatments have been investigated in patients with varying degrees of treatment resistance. CONCLUSIONS There is increasing evidence for efficacy, tolerability, and safety of neurostimulation treatments. rTMS is now a first-line recommendation for patients with MDD who have failed at least 1 antidepressant. ECT remains a second-line treatment for patients with treatment-resistant depression, although in some situations, it may be considered first line. Third-line recommendations include tDCS and VNS. MST and DBS are still considered investigational treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roumen V Milev
- Department of Psychiatry, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario
| | - Peter Giacobbe
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario
| | - Sidney H Kennedy
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario
| | | | | | - Jonathan Downar
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario
| | | | - Simon Patry
- Department of Psychiatry, L'Université Laval, Québec City, Québec
| | - Fidel Vila-Rodriguez
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia
| | - Raymond W Lam
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia
| | | | - Sagar V Parikh
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Arun V Ravindran
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario
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Sustained Improvement of Fibromyalgia Syndrome After Electroconvulsive Therapy for Intractable Depression. J Clin Rheumatol 2016; 22:289-90. [DOI: 10.1097/rhu.0000000000000386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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