Abstract
Background
Cognitive function may be impacted by trace element deficiencies. Previous studies have found that there is an imbalance of zinc, iron, magnesium and other trace elements in patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder. However, the mechanism of influence of trace element deficiency on cognitive function in patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder is still unclear.
Aims & Objectives
This study investigated the effects of changes in trace element levels on cognitive function in patients with first diagnosis of obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Method
In this cross-sectional investigation, 45 age- and sex-matched healthy controls (HC) and 51 patients with an initial diagnosis of OCD were included. Trace element levels were tested at 8:00 am, and cognitive function was evaluated using the MATRICS Consensus Cognitive Function Battery (MCCB). A statistical analysis and correlation analysis were performed to examine the differences in cognitive function and trace element level between the two groups.
Results
Compared with HC, OCD patients had lower scores on the seven cognitive domain information processing speed, (all p <0.05). Correlation analysis showed that zinc ion concentration was correlated with information processing speed (r = 0.257, P = 0.012), visual learning (r = 0.308, P = 0.003), and total cognition (r = 0.290, P = 0.005).
Discussion & Conclusions
Patients with OCD exhibit significant cognitive impairment in comparison to those with HC. Among them, deficiencies in visual learning and information processing speed may be linked to zinc deficiency.