Impairment of memory function in depressive patients is discussed controversially. At least memory impairment might be expected in more complex and effortful memory tasks.

80 patients with recurrent depressive disorder (ICD-10: F33) were compared to healthy controls in two computerized memory tasks (NEUROBAT verbal recognition and nonverbal free recall). Psychopathology (HDRS, BDI, mood scales) and computer attitude as well as computer experience were controlled as possible co-variables. A correlation between performance in computerized neuropsychological assessment and computer attitude had been found in former studies (Weber et al. 2002, Acta Psychiatr.Scand., 105, 126-130).

Unexpectedly in older patients poorer memory performance could be shown in the simple recognition task and not in the more effortful free recall. No correlations were found to depressive psychopathology. Significant correlations between computer experience and recognition task performance indicate that computer operation might be regarded as a relevant additional executive demand. The additional executive demand seems to cause a relevant inhibition of memory function in patients with lower degree of automation in computer operation.

The results of the present study confirm the well known difficulties in interpretation of neuropsychological test results in depression. The impairment by computer operation demands predominantly concerns female and older patients. Computer experience and computer attitude should be measured routinely concomitant to computerized neuropsychological assessment. Non-computerized tests should be used additionally in order to confirm results if necessary.

Furthermore the inhibition of distinct cognitive functions by additional executive demands might be regarded as a neuropsychological dimension of depressive psychopathology.