Impairment of Neurocognitive Functions in Young Alcohol Dependent Patients: Problem Solving and Executive Functions

Lee, Choong Heon; Song, Jin Kwan; Kim, Ji Hye; Choi, Moon Jong; Namkoong, Kee

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
The decline in general neurocognitive functions of alcoholics has been previously reported, especially in the area of memory, problem-solving and executive function which are important for occupational performance or adaptation to enviroment. On the other hand, young alcoholics under the age of 40 with relatively short duration of problem drinking were reported of no significant decline in neurocognitive functions consisting of memory, problem-solving and executive function. The objective of this study is to investigate whether there is a decline in neurocognitive functions around memory, problem-solving and executive function in abstinent young alcoholics.
METHODS
24 male and female alcohol dependent patients from the age of 19 to 39 years, who were detoxified in the hospotal were recruited as subjects. Normal control group of 20 males and females who matched for age, sex, educational level were selected. Clinical characteristics of the subjects were examined by demographic variables, alcohol history, Beck's Depression Inventory, Michigan Alcohol Screening Test and Standard Progressive Matrices. Also, subtests of Wechsler Memory Scale-Revised, Block design from the Korean-Wechsler Adult Intelligence, Wisconsin Card Sorting Test were performed in order to evaluate the subjects' neurocognitive functions.
RESULTS
Compared to normal controls, significant decline in neurocognitive functions such as memory, problem-solving and executive function were observed in young alcohol dependent patients with an average age of 32. Parts of the neuropsychological tests showed significant correlation with duration of lifetime drinking and lifetime alcohol consumption.
CONCLUSION
This study shows that, unlike previous reports, decline in memory, problem-solving and executive function occur in young alcoholics as in chronic alcoholics. This implies that young alcoholics can experience difficulty in occupational performance and adaptation to environment, and may be less responsive to treatment due to neurocognitive damage. The results of this study inclicate the importance of early identification, intervention, and planning therapeutic strategies in young alcoholics.