Memory Function in Euthymic Patients with Bipolar I Disorder: A Cross-Sectional Study of Clinical and Demographic Correlates.

BACKGROUND

Memory is one of the most affected cognitive domains in patients with Bipolar I Disorder, even during periods of euthymia. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between certain clinical and demographic variables and the domains of memory function in euthymic bipolar I patients.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study included 100 patients who were confirmed to be euthymic at the time of the research, as indicated by Hamilton Depression Rating Scale scores (HDRS <7) and Young Mania Rating Scale scores (YMRS <12). Recruitment was conducted between March 2021 and March 2022. Their demographic data were collected, and all participants were evaluated for psychiatric comorbidities using the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5 (SCID-5-CV). Memory function was assessed using the Wechsler Memory Scale-3rd edition (WMS-3). The correlation between memory function and demographic and clinical variables was analyzed.

RESULTS

The Wechsler Memory Scale total score was significantly associated with the number of hospitalizations, education level, and the number of depressive episodes. Notably, each additional hospitalization (β = -21.70 ± 8.18) and depressive episode (β = -23.36 ± 6.86) corresponded to a marked reduction in memory performance. The regression model demonstrated a robust fit, with an R-square value of 0.68.

CONCLUSION

Memory function is significantly correlated with the number of hospitalizations, level of education, and the number of previous depressive episodes in euthymic Bipolar I patients. This study underscores the importance of these factors in understanding and preventing memory impairment in this patient group.