Comparison of cognitive functions children with the autism spectrum disorders and schizophrenia

Abstract

Introduction

Autism spectrum disorder and early onset schizophrenia have many similar symptoms, however, these are different disorders. It is important to identify the main similarities\differences in the structure of cognitive impairment to define further assistance these children correctly. We distinguished two options for cognitive defect (total and partial) in children with schizophrenia.

Aims

Comparison of cognitive functions at children with autism spectrum disorder and early onset schizophrenia.

Objectives

Two groups with autism spectrum disorder (ASD1 – 22 patients of MHRC mean age 8.9; ASD2 – 27 pupils of special school mean age 7,4). Two groups with early onset schizophrenia (F20.8 – 16 patients of MHRC mean age 10,2; F21 – 18 patients of MHRC mean age 10.0).

Methods

Battery of pathopsychological tests for assessing cognitive functions (memory, attention, thinking), test figures of Leeper for visual perception. Z-scales were used for estimation of cognitive deficit or defect.

Results

Patients demonstrate variety of cognitive functioning. Normal cognitive functioning: ASD1* – 22%, F20.8 – 18%, F21* – 50% (* – P ≤ 0.05); partial cognitive defect: ASD1 – 27%, F20.8 – 18%, F21 – 22%; total cognitive defect: ASD1** – 50%, F20.8 – 64%, F21** – 27% (** – P ≤ 0.01). ASD1 and F20 were the worth in thinking. Children ASD1 and ASD2 demonstrate similar success in recognizing Leeper's figures.

Conclusions

There are some common features of cognitive development in children with severe forms of ASD and early onset schizophrenia, first of all in thinking.

No significant differences obtained between severe – mild forms of autistic disorders in visual perception (ASD1 and ASD2).

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.