Executive dysfunction in first-episode schizophrenia and relationship to duration of untreated psychosis: the West London Study.

Background: Many studies have demonstrated early generalised cognitive impairment in schizophrenia.

Aims: To examine executive function in first-episode schizophrenia, characterise the nature of the impairment and specify any relationships with symptoms and duration of untreated psychosis (DUP).

Method: Patients (n = 136) and normal controls (n = 81) were assessed with the Cambridge Automated Neuropsychological Test Battery, National Adult Reading Test IQ, and Scales for the Assessment of Positive and Negative Symptoms.