Electroencephalogram (EEG) and Electroconvulsive Therapy(ECT) Response in Schizophrenia

Pretreatment Electroencephalogram (EEG) May Predict Electroconvulsive Therapy(ECT) Effect in Schizophrenia

This study is designed to find quantitative Electroencephalogram(qEEG) biomarkers to predict Electroconvulsive Therapy(ECT) Response in Schizophrenia

The purpose of this proposal is to explore quantitative Electroencephalogram(qEEG) biomarkers that would predict Electroconvulsive Therapy(ECT) Response in Schizophrenia (SZD). The investigators will recruit 30 SZD patients who are preparing for ECT treatment and assesse psychotic symptoms using Positive and Negative symptom scale(PANSS) before and after 8-sessions clinical course of ECT treatment. These patients needed ECT treatment are assessed by clinicians according to American Psychiatric Association(APA) guidelines. Meanwhile resting EEG will be recorded for 10 minutes before the first episode of ECT treatment. Decrease of PANSS scores will be calculated after the last session of ECT treatment to distinguish responder/non-responder.

Inclusion Criteria:

• DSM-5 criteria for SZD
• patients needed ECT treatment assessed by clinicians using American psychological Association(APA) guidelines.
• symptoms must be of at least moderate severity (PANSS score >71)
• age between 18 to 60 years old
• medications will be stable for at least four weeks prior to ECT, and there will be no dose changes unless medically necessary

Exclusion Criteria:

• any additional current psychiatric comorbidity
• pregnancy or prepare to have a baby
• current use of any Antiepileptic drugs
• history of taking any kinds of Physicotherapeutics within 6 months
• severe psychotic symptoms that make patients could not accomplish the clinical interview