Visuo-perceptual processing in patients with schizophrenia treated with typical or atypical antipsychotics

Abstract

Objective: This is a pilot study exploring the possible association between a particular antipsychotic (AP) medication regime and both clinical and visuo-perceptual features.

Subjects and method: A series of 32 patients (25 males; mean age± SD = 28.1± 5.1 years, range 20-39) suffering from schizophrenia for at least two years (mean± SD duration of illness = 6.0± 3.6 years), and maintained on the same antipsychotic medication for at least one year, were divided into four groups according to their maintenance medication. Their assessment included the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), the Rey’s Complex Figure test (visual perception and memory), and Leff’s BELS scale (skills of daily living).

Results: There were not significant differences in demographic features or daily living skills. The patients on oral classical APs scored significantly higher on the disorganization factor than those on clozapine. In general, patients on atypical APs did better on the visual perception and memory tasks, with those on fluphenazine decanoate being the poorest. In the whole series of the 32 patients, the copy time increased with age, with higher scores on the negative and the depressive factors, and with lower scores in visual memory. On multiple linear regression, only visual memory score and age remained significant.

Conclusions: In spite of the small sample size, patients on atypical APs seem to be in a better condition, both in symptoms and in visuo-spatial abilities. Visual reproduction is influenced by both visual memory and age.