Longitudinal neuropsychological outcomes in treatment-resistant depression following bed nucleus of the stria terminalis-area deep brain stimulation: a case review

ABSTRACT

Studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of deep brain stimulation (DBS) as a treatment modality for psychiatric conditions. We present a case reviewing the longitudinal neuropsychological performance outcomes following bed nucleus of the stria terminalis-area (BNST) DBS in a patient with treatment-resistant depression (TRD). The cognitive safety of DBS is well documented for various targets, however cognitive outcomes of BNST-area DBS have not been extensively reported for patients with TRD. Neuropsychological assessment was conducted pre- and post-DBS. Twelve months following DBS, augmented general cognitive performance was observed with significant changes in specific domains.

KEYWORDS:

• Bed nucleus of stria terminalis
• deep brain stimulation
• treatment resistant depression
• neuropsychology
• repeatable battery for the assessment of neuropsychological status

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.