Assessment of different domain impairments in Cognitive Functions and Functionalities found in Euthymic Patients with Bipolar Disorder I / II - during the early and late phases of the disease, using the FAB and FAST tests

Objective: In this study, we focus on assessing two key predictors and outcomes in Bipolar Disorder (BD), which are: cognition and functionality performance, dividing them into two subgroups, and then researching for a correlation between them. Methods; Fifty patients with BD in a euthymic phase were divided into two subgroups (≤ 3 years (n=25) and ≥ 10 years (n=25) of the disease) and were then compared with healthy controls (n=25). Psychosocial functioning was assessed using the Short Functionality Assessment Test (FAST), and the Frontal Assessment Battery (FAB) test to assess frontal cognitive functions. Clinical and sociodemographic characteristics were analyzed using unilateral variance analysis, or the chi-square test. In order to verify the correlation between the FAB and FAST tests, Spearman's correlation coefficient test was used Results: Both subgroups of euthymic patients had higher FAST total scores than the healthy control group (9.80 ± 5.94). The groups with ≤ 3 years (20.63 ± 8.21), and ≥ 10 years (27.80 ± 12.50) of the disease presented(p<0.001). Associated with these results, bipolar patients had higher FAST scores in all domains, predominantly with moderate impairment (score 21-40), and lower scores in the following four FAB test domains: conceptualization, sensitivity to interference, inhibitory control, and motor series (p<0.05). The correlation between the FAB and FAST tests showed moderate intensity (r2 = -0.539). Conclusion: This study reinforced the impact of BD on functionality and frontal cognitive functions, demonstrating changes in several domains, and impairment in social, occupational, and cognitive functions in patients with different times of disease onset. Understanding all factors is essential for these patients, which increases the possibility of rehabilitation and response to treatment.