J Korean Med Sci.  2018 Jun;33(26):e179. 10.3346/jkms.2018.33.e179.

Reduction in Alpha Peak Frequency and Coherence on Quantitative Electroencephalography in Patients with Schizophrenia

• Yeum TS
• Kang UG

• KMID: 2414032
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3346/jkms.2018.33.e179

Abstract

BACKGROUND
The aim of the study was to examine the characteristics of alpha wave peak frequency, power, and coherence in patients with schizophrenia.
METHODS
Thirty-one patients with schizophrenia and age- and sex-matched subjects with no psychopathology were enrolled. All study participants underwent quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG). Alpha-related values, including peak frequency, power, and coherence, were evaluated.
RESULTS
Alpha peak frequency on the Oz area was slower in the schizophrenia group than that in the control group. However, no differences in absolute or relative power were observed between the two groups. Significant reductions in absolute and relative coherence were observed at the C3-C4 and T3-T4 nodes in the patients with schizophrenia. Relative coherence was reduced at the P3-P4 nodes.
CONCLUSION
This study focused on alpha variables detected in QEEG as intrinsic values to distinguish schizophrenia from a healthy control. The results suggest decreased alpha peak frequency of the occipital lobe and decreased coherence between the two hemispheres in patients with schizophrenia. A further study could elucidate the causal relationship and biological meaning of the variations in alpha waves in patients with schizophrenia.

Keyword

Schizophrenia; Quantitative Electroencephalography; Alpha Peak Frequency; Alpha Coherence

MeSH Terms

Electroencephalography*
Humans
Occipital Lobe
Psychopathology
Schizophrenia*