Computerized Symbol Digit Modalities Test in a Swiss Pediatric Cohort Part 1: Validation

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Pediatric Psychology
• Cognitive Assessment

Background:

• The Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT) is a widely used measure of cognitive processing speed.
• A computerized version (c-SDMT) offers potential advantages in administration and scoring.
• Validation in diverse pediatric populations is essential for broader clinical application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To validate the computerized Symbol Digit Modalities Test (c-SDMT) in a Swiss pediatric cohort.
• To compare c-SDMT performance with Canadian norms and the paper-pencil SDMT.
• To evaluate sex and age effects, and test-retest reliability of the c-SDMT.

Main Methods:

• A longitudinal observational study involving 86 children (ages 8-16) in Switzerland.
• Participants included healthy children and those hospitalized for non-neurological conditions.
• 48 participants completed two testing sessions using both SDMT and c-SDMT.

Main Results:

• High test-retest reliability was found for both SDMT (ICC=0.89) and c-SDMT (ICC=0.90).
• Significant age effects on processing speed were observed, but no sex effects.
• Swiss c-SDMT norms were established and found comparable to Canadian norms, with no significant differences in performance.

Conclusions:

• The c-SDMT is a valid and reliable tool for assessing cognitive processing speed in children aged 8-16.
• It demonstrates comparable performance to the paper-pencil SDMT and aligns with Canadian norms.
• The c-SDMT is a feasible, easy-to-administer bedside tool with high reliability and no motor demands.