Associations between C-reactive protein levels and cognition during the first 6 months after acute psychosis

Abstract

ObjectiveInverse relationships between the C-reactive protein (CRP) levels and cognitive performance in acute psychosis have been demonstrated. We aimed to investigate how the serum level and initial change of CRP in acutely admitted patients with psychosis was correlated with cognitive performance during a 6-months follow-up period.MethodsThe study is part of a pragmatic, randomised trial comparing four different second-generation antipsychotic drugs, and consists of 208 acute phase patients recruited at admittance for psychosis. This study reports data for all groups collectively, and does not compare treatment groups. Measurements of CRP and cognitive performance were conducted at baseline (T1) and after 4 weeks on average after inclusion (T2). Cognition was also assessed after 3 months (T3) and 6 months (T4) of follow-up.ResultsGlobal cognition improved during the follow-up period of 6 months, especially in the T1–T2 interval. The different cognitive subdomains showed different time-dependent profiles of improvement, with memory and attention improving significantly also in the later phases. Reduction of the CRP level during the initial follow-up interval (T1–T2) was associated with increased overall cognitive performance in the T2–T4 interval, but not in the T1–T2 interval. For the cognitive subdomains, we found an inverse association between change in CRP level and verbal abilities (T2–T4 interval), and attention (T2–T3 interval).ConclusionThese findings indicate that initial changes in the serum level of CRP in the acute phase of psychosis may predict cognitive function in later phases of the disease.

The association between cytokines and psychomotor speed in a spectrum of psychotic disorders: A longitudinal study

“…In contrast to the cytokines remaining stable, patients improved significantly on tests for psychomotor speed during the study period. This in line with other studies demonstrating that schizophrenia patients treated with antipsychotics improve on overall cognitive performance ( Fathian et al., 2019 ; Gold et al., 1999 ), and psychomotor speed over time ( Hughes et al., 2003 ; Townsend et al., 2002 ). In this particular study population, we have found the same improvement in overall cognitive performance ( Anda et al., 2021 ).…”

<p>Serum C-Reactive Protein in Patients with Deficit Schizophrenia and the Relationship with Cognitive Function</p>

“…Fathian et al discovered that initial changes in the serum levels of CRP during the acute phase of psychosis could predict cognitive function in the later phases of the disease. 24 Although the underlying mechanisms need to be further elucidated, CRP could play a role in the development of this psychiatric disorder.…”

Role and Perspectives of Inflammation and C-Reactive Protein (CRP) in Psychosis: An Economic and Widespread Tool for Assessing the Disease

“…In summary, an inverse association of CRP levels and cognitive ability is noted in acute psychosis. However, a clinical trial published in 2019 provided valuable insight into the prognostic value of CRP in six months following the resolution of acute psychosis [ 47 ]. Cognitive abilities improved with time and a noticeable drop in CRP levels was noted in the later periods, continuing the inverse relationship [ 47 ].…”