ASSESSING THE NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL PROFILE OF STABLE SCHIZOPHRENIC OUTPATIENTS

In an administration of the Computerized Neuropsychological Test Batte ry (CNTB), stable schizophrenic outpatients (n=26) showed significant impairment (P <0.05) relative to normal control subjects (n=28) in ove rall function and measures of verbal learning. Except on tests of moto r speed, the performance profile of schizophrenic patients was similar to that of elderly normal control subjects (n=33). This profile of de ficits is consistent with findings of other investigators in similar p atient populations. In addition to displaying sensitivity to the mild impairments found in outpatients, the CNTB showed high test-retest rel iability (r=0.76, P <0.0001). It should be useful for evaluating cogni tive impairment in clinical trials of prospective treatments.