Cognitive impairment is a common feature of bipolar depression, and accurate assessment tools are essential for effective screening and evaluation. This study aimed to validate the THINC-Integrated Tool (THINC-it), a quick and simple battery originally used for major depressive disorder, for use in bipolar depression. The cognitive functions of 120 bipolar depression patients and 100 healthy controls were assessed using THINC-it, with results showing good internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.815) and strong retest reliability (ICC = 0.571 to 0.854). Significant differences were found between the two groups in various cognitive measures, including the total score and individual subtests, demonstrating the tool’s ability to distinguish between patients and healthy individuals.

The psychometric analysis, including factor analysis, revealed that THINC-it has strong construct validity, with significant factor loading coefficients for the cognitive tests. The tool proved to be reliable and valid in assessing cognitive impairment in bipolar depression. Researchers suggest it can be a useful tool for clinicians in both research and clinical settings to screen for cognitive deficits in these patients.

Reference: Zhu N, Zhang W, Huang J, et al. Validation of the THINC-It Tool for Assessment of Cognitive Impairment in Patients with Bipolar Depression. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat. 2023 Feb 27;19:443-452. doi: 10.2147/NDT.S401095. PMID: 36874958; PMCID: PMC9983437.