Central auditory test performance predicts future neurocognitive function in children living with and without HIV

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Pediatrics
• Public Health

Background:

• Central auditory tests correlate with neurocognitive performance.
• Limited resources in low- and middle-income countries hinder detailed cognitive testing.
• Children living with HIV (CLWH) may benefit from novel neurocognitive assessment methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the utility of central auditory tests in assessing neurocognitive performance.
• To determine if early central auditory tests can predict later neurocognitive outcomes in CLWH.
• To compare the predictive power of central auditory tests with factors like education.

Main Methods:

• Administered central auditory tests to CLWH and a control group.
• Employed machine learning to integrate factors influencing neurocognitive performance, including education.
• Assessed the predictive accuracy of central auditory tests for neurocognitive performance.

Main Results:

• Central auditory tests demonstrated significant predictive value for neurocognitive performance.
• The predictive performance of central auditory tests was comparable or superior to education.
• Central auditory tests provide an objective measure for tracking neurocognitive function.

Conclusions:

• Central auditory tests are a viable and effective tool for assessing neurocognitive performance, particularly in resource-limited settings.
• These tests offer a promising method for monitoring neurocognitive development in CLWH.
• Central auditory testing presents an objective approach to understanding brain function in vulnerable populations.