Baseline working memory was associated with improvement in psychological quality of life in patients with persistent depressive symptoms: a prospective observational study - Scorecard - MDSpire

Baseline working memory was associated with improvement in psychological quality of life in patients with persistent depressive symptoms: a prospective observational study

  • By

  • Yuki Oe

  • Mariko Kurihara

  • Tomonari Hayasaka

  • Izumi Nagashima

  • Masami Murao

  • Yasuyuki Matsumoto

  • Yoshikazu Takaesu

  • Takashi Tsuboi

  • Koichiro Watanabe

  • Hitoshi Sakurai

  • May 21, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Scorecard: Initial working memory levels correlated with enhancements in psychological quality of life among individuals experiencing ongoing depressive symptoms: a prospective observational analysis

At a Glance

CategoryDetail
ConditionPersistent Depressive Symptoms
Key MechanismsCognitive dysfunction, particularly in working memory, impacts quality of life and functional outcomes.
Target PopulationPatients with major depressive disorder, dysthymia, and bipolar disorders experiencing persistent depressive symptoms.
Care SettingRoutine clinical care

Key Highlights

  • Higher baseline working memory is associated with greater improvement in psychological quality of life.
  • No significant overall improvement in quality of life was observed over six months.
  • Cognitive dysfunction is a core feature of depression, worsening with illness chronicity.
  • The study emphasizes the heterogeneity of treatment-resistant depression management.
  • Findings suggest working memory may serve as a prognostic marker in persistent depressive symptoms.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

  • Assess cognitive function using standardized tools like WAIS-IV.
  • Consider the heterogeneity of depressive symptoms in diagnosis.

Management

  • Implement structured treatment pathways for patients with persistent depressive symptoms.
  • Monitor cognitive function as part of treatment planning.

Monitoring & Follow-up

  • Regularly assess quality of life and cognitive function at baseline and follow-up intervals.

Risks

  • Cognitive impairment may lead to poorer functional recovery and increased disability.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Individuals with persistent depressive symptoms, including major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder.

Cognitive function, particularly working memory, should be considered in treatment outcomes.

Clinical Best Practices

  • Incorporate cognitive assessments into routine evaluations for patients with depression.
  • Tailor treatment approaches based on cognitive profiles and functioning.

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