Using Computers to Assess Cognition in MS: Improving Tried and Tested Indices to Capture Real World Challenges
Year: 2016
Type: dissertation
Abstract: Cognitive dysfunction is common in people with multiple sclerosis (MS) and causes limitation in activities of daily living. Current cognitive screens are limited by time and cost requirements and they lack ecological validity. The objective of the present study was to develop an improved method of cognitive assessment using real-world distracters. A sample of 102 MS subjects and 69 healthy controls underwent testing with a modified computerized Symbol Digit Modalities Test (c-SDMT) and the Minimal Assessment of Cognitive Functioning in MS battery. Half completed the distracter c-SDMT and half non-distracter. Relative to the traditional SDMT, significantly more MS subjects were impaired on the distracter c-SDMT, but not on the non-distracter test. The distracter test had a sensitivity of 82% and specificity of 80% in detecting global cognitive impairment. The incorporation of distracters improves the sensitivity of the c-SDMT and offers a quick and easy method for detecting cognitive dysfunction.
Source: TSpace (University of Toronto)
Author: Viral Patel
Language: English
Subfield: Clinical Neurology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2601958316