The assessment of cognitive function in advanced HIV-1 infection and AIDS dementia complex using a new computerised cognitive test battery

November 27, 2014

Authors: Lucette A J Cysique, Paul Maruff, David Darby, Bruce J Brew

Journal: Archives of Clinical Neuropsychology

DOI: 10.1016/j.acn.2005.07.011

Year Published: 2006

The validity of a new computerised battery called CogState was determined in 60 individuals with advanced human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) infection from which eleven were assessed as AIDS dementia complex (ADC) stage 1 or 2. Twenty-one seronegative individuals were recruited as controls. Participants were evaluated with a brief computerised examination, lasting 10-15 min, assessing reaction time, accuracy in working memory and learning. They were also assessed with a standard neuropsychological examination lasting 1h 30 min on average. The computerised assessment demonstrated a good sensitivity of 81.1% and specificity of 69.9% as well as good positive predictive value (81%) and acceptable construct validity (.45-.62). Slowed reaction time and learning deficits in the computerised battery were characteristic of ADC. This study supports the utility of a brief computerised battery in the detection of HIV-associated neurocognitive impairment that could be used for wide-scale screening.

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