To investigate cognitive function in Chinese patients with generalized dystonia and explore its relationship with motor and psychiatric symptoms.
Approach:
Study Design: A case-control study was conducted with 20 patients with isolated genetic or idiopathic generalized dystonia (GD) and matched healthy controls.
Assessment Methods: Clinical characteristics, motor symptoms, psychiatric symptoms, and cognitive performance were assessed using standardized rating scales and a comprehensive neuropsychological battery.
Statistical Analysis: Group comparisons, multiple linear regression analyses, and correlation analyses were performed, adjusting for demographic and affective variables.
Key Findings:
Compared to healthy controls, GD patients showed mild cognitive impairments, particularly in the MoCA, executive function/attention, spatial ability, and episodic memory.
After adjustment for multiple comparisons, only deficits in MoCA, executive function/attention, and episodic memory remained significant.
No significant associations were found between cognitive performance and motor severity, disease duration, or medication use.
Interpretation:
Limitations:
The study had a small sample size of 20 patients.
Findings may not be generalizable beyond the studied population.
Conclusion:
GD is associated with mild and heterogeneous cognitive impairments, with only a subset of deficits remaining significant after adjustment.
