Hemispheric differences for visual P3 amplitude in patients with schizophrenia

Abstract

Objective: While reduced amplitude of visual P3 event related potential has been reported in patients with schizophrenia, little is known about visual P3 asymmetry. The present study aimed to investigate the presence and pattern of lateralization of the P3 component in a group of patients with schizophrenia. Methods: ERPs were recorded in 25 patients and 26 control individuals, using a simple visual oddball discrimination task. Results: patients with schizophrenia showed overall P3 reductions, as well as asymmetry of P3 amplitude, with smaller P3 amplitude over the left parietal electrode. Conclusion: This finding may reflect abnormalities of a generator located in the left parietal lobe in patients with schizophrenia.