Neurocognitive Differences in Attention, Memory, and Executive Functions Between People with Epilepsy and Healthy Controls: Evidence from Shiraz, Iran

This study investigated neurocognitive profiles in attention, memory, and executive functions among individuals with epilepsy compared to healthy controls in Shiraz, Iran. In a cross-sectional design, ۱۲۱ participants (۶۱ with epilepsy, ۶۰ controls) aged ۱۸–۴۵ years were assessed using a standardized neuropsychological battery, including the Digit Span Test, Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT), Stroop Color-Word Test, and Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST). Data were analyzed using non-parametric Mann–Whitney U tests due to non-normal distributions. Results revealed that individuals with epilepsy exhibited significantly greater cognitive impairments across all domains: attention (U = ۱۷۱.۵, p < .۰۰۱), memory (U = ۱۳۵.۵, p < .۰۰۱), and executive functioning (U= ۴۹.۵, p < .۰۰۱). The findings underscore substantial neurocognitive dysfunction associated with epilepsy, highlighting the need for integrated cognitive screening and tailored interventions within clinical care in the Iranian context. This study contributes to the growing cross-cultural evidence on epilepsy-related cognitive deficits and supports the adoption of holistic management approaches that address both seizure control and cognitive rehabilitation.

کلیدواژه ها:

attention ، Cognitive functioning ، Epilepsy ، executive functions ، Memory