The assessment of cognitive function in advanced HIV-1 infection and AIDS dementia complex using a new computerised cognitive test battery

Abstract

The validity of a new computerised battery called CogState was determined in 60 individuals with advanced human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) infection from which eleven were assessed as AIDS dementia complex (ADC) stage 1 or 2. Twenty-one seronegative individuals were recruited as controls. Participants were evaluated with a brief computerised examination, lasting 10-15 min, assessing reaction time, accuracy in working memory and learning. They were also assessed with a standard neuropsychological examination lasting 1 h 30 min on average. The computerised assessment demonstrated a good sensitivity of 81.1% and specificity of 69.9% as well as good positive predictive value (81%) and acce..