Neurocognitive impairment in alcohol-dependence syndrome cases and its response to treatment

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND A sizeable portion of psychiatric ward beds in military hospitals is occupied by patients with psychoactive substance abuse and especially by alcohol-dependence syndrome (ADS) cases. Though there have been significant advances in the diagnosis and management of these cases, not much of work has been done in our set up for the evaluation of their cognitive impairment and its response to treatment. METHODS Neuropsychological evaluation of 100 cases of freshly diagnosed ADS was done by using postgraduate battery of brain dysfunction (PGI-BBD). The findings were compared with controls. They were detoxified, treated and after four weeks were re-evaluated and the findings were analysed. RESULTS There was significant impairment in all parameters of cognition. All of them showed improvement with treatment but after four weeks, the impairment persisted to significant level in some parameters. CONCLUSION Alcohol-dependence syndrome cases have significant cognitive impairment but improve with detoxification, multivitamin supplement and abstinence. This aspect has to be kept in mind while deploying them in sensitive appointments.