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The Multiple Sclerosis Performance Test (MSPT): An iPad-Based Disability Assessment Tool
Published on: June 30, 2014
The Audio Recorded Cognitive Screen (ARCS) in patients with multiple sclerosis: a practical tool for multiple
J Lechner-Scott1, T Kerr, B Spencer
1Department of Neurology Neurosurgery and Neurophysiology, John Hunter Hospital, Hunter Region Mail Centre, Newcastle, Australia. Jeannette.Lechner-Scott@hnehealth.nsw.gov.au
Multiple Sclerosis (Houndmills, Basingstoke, England)
|July 13, 2010
Summary
The ARCS tool effectively screens for cognitive impairment in multiple sclerosis patients, showing higher sensitivity than PASAT for memory and executive functions. It is well-tolerated and easy to use.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Clinical Neurology
Background:
- Cognitive impairment is a frequent, impactful complication in multiple sclerosis (MS), affecting quality of life.
- Current detection methods for MS-related cognitive deficits are often test-dependent and may lack sensitivity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To validate the Audio Recorded Cognitive Screen (ARCS) as a tool for identifying cognitive impairment in individuals with multiple sclerosis.
- To compare the efficacy of the ARCS against the Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test (PASAT) and formal neuropsychological testing.
Main Methods:
- The ARCS tool was administered to 127 unsupervised patients with multiple sclerosis, assessing executive function, memory, visual-spatial skills, and language.
- Patient responses were recorded for later scoring; a subset also completed the PASAT and formal neuropsychological assessments.
Main Results:
- The ARCS demonstrated superior sensitivity (86% vs. 68%) compared to PASAT in detecting overall cognitive impairment at equivalent specificity (71%).
- The ARCS showed particular strength in identifying memory and executive function deficits.
- Patient acceptance and completion rates for the ARCS were comparable or better than for the PASAT.
Conclusions:
- The ARCS is a sensitive, well-tolerated, and user-friendly screening tool for cognitive impairment in multiple sclerosis.
- It offers a rapid (<5 min clinician time) and comprehensive assessment, with advantages over the PASAT for MS cognitive evaluation.
