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Published on: December 16, 2022
Deficits in processing speed in patients with multiple sclerosis: evidence from explicit and covert measures
Douglas R Denney1, Katherine S Gallagher, Sharon G Lynch
1Department of Psychology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, USA. denney@ku.edu
Summary
Individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) show slower information processing speed compared to controls. This cognitive slowing is evident on both explicitly and covertly timed tasks, with larger differences observed on explicit measures.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychology
- Clinical Neurology
Background:
- Cognitive slowing is a known symptom in multiple sclerosis (MS).
- Previous research primarily used explicitly timed tasks to assess processing speed.
- The impact of covertly timed measures on MS-related cognitive slowing requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare information processing speed in MS patients and controls using both explicitly and covertly timed computerized measures.
- To determine if differences in processing speed vary between explicit and covert timing paradigms in MS.
Main Methods:
- Employed a computerized battery of cognitive tests.
- Utilized explicitly timed measures: Stroop Test and Picture Naming Test.
- Included covertly timed measures: Rotated Figures Test, Remote Associates Test, and Tower of London.
Main Results:
- Significant differences in information processing speed were found between MS patients and controls across both measure types.
- Effect sizes for processing speed differences were considerably larger on explicitly timed measures compared to covertly timed measures.
Conclusions:
- Cognitive slowing in MS is demonstrable using both explicit and covert timing paradigms.
- Explicitly timed tasks may be more sensitive in detecting processing speed deficits in multiple sclerosis.
