Diagnostic Accuracy of Touchscreen-Based Tests for Mild Cognitive Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Geriatrics
• Digital Health

Background:

• Mild neurocognitive disorder (mNCD) involves cognitive deficits that do not impair daily functioning.
• Digital touchscreen tools for cognitive assessment are emerging but their clinical relevance requires evaluation.
• The diagnostic accuracy of these novel digital tools for mNCD needs systematic assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify digital touchscreen tools used in mNCD diagnosis.
• To assess the diagnostic performance of these digital tools for mNCD.

Main Methods:

• A systematic review of 4 databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, IEEE Xplore) was conducted.
• 50 articles using touchscreen tools for cognitive assessment in older adults were included.
• Meta-analysis of 34 articles was performed using a bivariate random-effects model.

Main Results:

• The review included 50 studies with 5974 participants; meta-analysis involved 34 studies with 4500 participants.
• Pooled sensitivity was 0.81 (95% CI: 0.78–0.84) and pooled specificity was 0.83 (95% CI: 0.79–0.86).
• Short, self-administered touchscreen tests performed comparably to longer, assessor-administered tests.

Conclusions:

• Touchscreen tablet cognitive testing is suitable for mNCD screening.
• Further research is necessary to establish clinical utility in primary care and specialized referrals.
• The study was self-funded and registered with PROSPERO (CRD42022358725).