Neuromodulation in the treatment of social cognition dysfunction in Schizophrenia: a systematic review.

Background: Deficits in social cognition are significant barriers to functional living for individuals with schizophrenia. Although these symptoms have garnered increasing research attention, an effective treatment remains elusive. This systematic review evaluates the use of neuromodulation techniques in treating social cognition deficits in schizophrenia.

Methods: We conducted a literature search in MEDLINE/PubMed, Web of Science, The Cochrane Library, and Embase databases, adhering to PRISMA guidelines. We included randomized, sham-controlled trials, non-controlled and/or open-label trials that assessed the efficacy of neuromodulation in patients diagnosed with schizophrenia (as per the DSM-III or later editions, or ICD equivalents), aged over 18 years.

Results: Thirteen papers (1 on ECT, 4 on rTMS, and 8 on tES), including 11 RCTs, met the inclusion criteria. Seven of the thirteen analyzed studies indicated improvements in certain domains of social cognition associated with neuromodulation treatments.

Conclusions: Neuromodulation techniques improved some domains of social cognition in individuals with schizophrenia. Further research is required to develop robust treatment protocols with proven efficacy in improving social cognition.