[Neurocognition and social cognition in patients with schizophrenia or mood disorders].

OBJECTIVE: Overview on the current knowledge regarding neurocognition and social cognition in patients with schizophrenia or mood disorders.

METHODS: Selective literature research on deficits in neurocognition and social cognition intrinsic to schizophrenia and mood disorders, their occurrence and effects.

RESULTS: Deficits in neurocognition and social cognition are more pronounced in patients with schizoprenia than in those with mood disorders. However, regardless of diagnosis these impairments have significant negative impact on the patients' subjective and functional outcome.

CONCLUSIONS: It is important to consider cognitive deficits as an integral part of a treatment approach to achieve mental stabilization in patients with schizophrenia or mood disorders.