Utilidad diagnóstica y validez predictiva del uso conjunto de Fototest y Mini-Cog en deterioro cognitivo / Diagnostic accuracy and predictive validity of associated use of Fototest and Mini-Cog in cognitive impairment

Introducción: El Fototest y el Mini-Cog incluyen todos los dominios que debieran formar parte de una evaluación cognitiva. Nuestro objetivo es evaluar la utilidad diagnóstica del uso conjunto de ambos instrumentos para el diagnóstico de deterioro cognitivo (DC). Métodos: Estudio fase iii de evaluación de pruebas diagnósticas con 2 muestras independientes, estudio (448 sujetos), dividida aleatoriamente en 2 dataset (Base 80%, Test 20%), y Externa (61 sujetos). Prueba index: Fototest y Mini-Cog aplicados consecutivamente; prueba de referencia: evaluación cognitiva formal. Se evalúa la UD del uso combinado y escalonado de los modelos simple (Comb-Simple), regresión logística (Comb-RL) y árbol aleatorio (Comb-AA) para identificar DC (GDS ≥ 3). Se realiza un análisis exploratorio en Base seleccionando los criterios que maximizan la exactitud; la evaluación se realiza en las muestras Test y externa mediante un análisis preespecificado con los criterios seleccionados. Resultados: La UD de los modelos combinados en Base (Comb-Simple 88,3 [(88,5-91,4] [exactitud, LI95%-LS95%], Comb-RL 91.6 [88,2-94,3] y Comb-AA 95,2 [92,5-97,2])) es significativamente superior a la de Mini-Cog y Fototest (81,6 [77,1-85,4] y 84,9 [80,8-88,5], respectivamente); estos resultados son replicados en Test (Comb-Simple 88,9 [exactitud], Comb-RL 95,6 y Comb-AA 92,2) y externa (Comb-Simple 91,8, Comb-RL 90,2 y Comb-AA 88,5). La aplicación escalonada mantiene la misma UD pero requiere menos tiempo (197,3 ± 56,7 vs. 233,9 ± 45,2, p < 0,0001). Conclusiones: El uso conjunto del Fototest y el Mini-Cog requiere menos de 4 min y mejora la UD de ambos instrumentos. El uso escalonado es más eficiente porque manteniendo la misma UD requiere menos tiempo de aplicación.(AU)

Introduction: The Fototest and Mini-Cog include all the domains that are necessary in a cognitive assessment. This study aims to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of the combined use of both instruments for detecting cognitive impairment. Methods: We performed a phase iii diagnostic accuracy study with 2 independent samples: STUDY, which included 448 participants randomly allocated to 2 datasets (BASE [80%] and TEST [20%]); and EXTERNAL, which included 61 participants. The index test was consecutive administration of the Fototest and Mini-Cog, and the reference test was formal cognitive assessment. We evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of two-step vs. consecutive application of the tests and simple (Comb-Simple), logistic regression (Comb-LR), and random decision tree (Comb-RDT) models of their combined use for detecting cognitive impairment (Global Deterioration Scale score ≥ 3). We performed an exploratory analysis of the BASE dataset, selecting criteria that maximise accuracy; a pre-specified analysis was used to evaluate the selected criteria in the TEST and EXTERNAL datasets. Results: The diagnostic accuracy (95% confidence interval) of the combined models in the BASE dataset (Comb-Simple: 88.3 [88.5-91.4]; Comb-LR: 91.6 [88.2-94.3]; Comb-RDT 95.2 [92.5-97.2]) was significantly higher than the individual values observed for the Mini-Cog and Fototest (81.6 [77.1-85.4] and 84.9 [80.8-88.5], respectively). These results were replicated in the TEST (Comb-Simple: 88.9; Comb-LR: 95.6; Comb-RDT: 92.2) and EXTERNAL datasets (Comb-Simple: 91.8; Comb-LR: 90.2; Comb-RDT: 88.5). Two-step application had the same diagnostic accuracy than consecutive application but required less time (mean [SD] of 197.3 s [56.7] vs. 233.9 s [45.2]; P<.0001). Conclusions: Combined application of the Fototest and Mini-Cog takes less than 4 minutes and improves the diagnostic accuracy of both instruments. Two-step application is more efficient as it requires less...(AU)

Diagnostic accuracy and predictive validity of combined use of Fototest and Mini-Cog in cognitive impairment.

INTRODUCTION: The Fototest and Mini-Cog include all the domains that are necessary in a cognitive assessment. This study aims to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of the combined use of both instruments for detecting cognitive impairment. METHODS: We performed a phase III diagnostic accuracy study with 2 independent samples: STUDY, which included 448 participants randomly allocated to 2 datasets (BASE [80%] and TEST [20%]); and EXTERNAL, which included 61 participants. The index test was consecutive administration of the Fototest and Mini-Cog, and the reference test was formal cognitive assessment. We evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of two-step vs consecutive application of the tests and simple (Comb-Simple), logistic regression (Comb-LR), and random decision tree (Comb-RDT) models of their combined use for detecting cognitive impairment (Global Deterioration Scale score ≥ 3). We performed an exploratory analysis of the BASE dataset, selecting criteria that maximise accuracy; a pre-specified analysis was used to evaluate the selected criteria in the TEST and EXTERNAL datasets. RESULTS: The diagnostic accuracy (95% confidence interval) of the combined models in the BASE dataset (Comb-Simple: 88.3 [88.5-91.4]; Comb-LR: 91.6 [88.2-94.3]; Comb-RDT 95.2 [92.5-97.2]) was significantly higher than the individual values observed for the Mini-Cog and Fototest (81.6 [77.1-85.4] and 84.9 [80.8-88.5], respectively). These results were replicated in the TEST (Comb-Simple: 88.9; Comb-LR: 95.6; Comb-RDT: 92.2) and EXTERNAL datasets (Comb-Simple: 91.8; Comb-LR: 90.2; Comb-RDT: 88.5). Two-step application had the same diagnostic accuracy than consecutive application but required less time (mean [SD] of 197.3 s [56.7] vs 233.9 s [45.2]; P < .0001). CONCLUSIONS: Combined application of the Fototest and Mini-Cog takes less than 4 minutes and improves the diagnostic accuracy of both instruments. Two-step application is more efficient as it requires less time while maintaining the same diagnostic accuracy.

Utilidad diagnóstica de test cognitivos breves en el cribado de deterioro cognitivo / Diagnostic performance of brief cognitive tests in cognitive impairment screening

Introducción y objetivos: Evaluar y comparar la utilidad diagnóstica (UD) para el cribado de deterioro cognitivo (DC) de los test cognitivos breves (TCB) recomendados por la Guía de práctica clínica sobre la atención integral a las personas con enfermedad de Alzheimer y otras demencias. Material y métodos: Estudio de fase iii de evaluación de pruebas diagnósticas en el que se ha incluido en Atención Primaria a sujetos con sospecha de DC. A todos se les ha aplicado Mini-Mental State Examination (Mini-Mental), Mini Examen Cognoscitivo (MEC), Short Portable Mental Status Questionnaire (SPMSQ), Memory Impairment Screen (MIS), test del reloj (TdR), Eurotest, Fototest y test de alteración de memoria (T@M). El diagnóstico de DC se ha realizado de forma independiente y cegada con respecto a los resultados de los TCB. La UD se ha evaluado mediante el área bajo la curva ROC (aROC). Resultados: Se ha incluido a 141 sujetos (86 con DC). El Eurotest y el T@M (0,91 ± 0,02 [aROC ± EE] y 0,90 ± 0,02, respectivamente), los instrumentos que requieren más tiempo (7,1 ± 1,8 [media ± DE] y 6,8 ± 2,2 min, respectivamente) tienen una UD significativamente superior a la del Mini-Mental, MEC, SPMSQ y TdR, pero no a la del MIS y Fototest (0,87 ± 0,03 ambas), requiriendo este último menos de la mitad del tiempo (2,8 ± 0,8 min). T@M y MIS solo evalúan memoria y el último no es aplicable a analfabetos. Conclusiones: Los instrumentos más recomendables para el cribado de DC en Atención Primaria son Eurotest, T@M y Fototest, siendo el último más eficiente por requerir la mitad de tiempo. (AU)

Introduction and objectives: This study aims to assess and compare the diagnostic performance of brief cognitive tests for cognitive impairment (CI) screening recommended by the Spanish guidelines for the integral care of people with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. Material and methods: We performed a phase iii study into the accuracy of diagnostic tests, including patients with suspected CI in a primary care setting. All patients completed the Mini–Mental State Examination (MMSE), the Mini Examen Cognoscitivo (MEC), the Short Portable Mental Status Questionnaire (SPMSQ), the Memory Impairment Screen (MIS), the Clock Drawing Test (CDT), the Eurotest, the Fototest, and the Memory Alteration Test (M@T). CI was diagnosed independently by researchers blinded to scores on these tests. Diagnostic performance was evaluated by calculating the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). Results: The study included 141 individuals (86 with CI). The Eurotest and M@T (AUC ± SE: 0.91 ± 0.02 and 0.90 ± 0.02, respectively) took longer to administer (mean [SD]: 7.1 [1.8] and 6.8 [2.2] min, respectively) and have significantly better diagnostic performance compared to the MMSE, MEC, SPMSQ, and CDT, but not compared to MIS or Fototest (both with an AUC of 0.87 ± 0.03), with the latter taking less than half as long to administer (2.8 [0.8] min). The M@T and MIS only evaluate memory, and the latter cannot be administered to illiterate people. Conclusion: The most advisable tests for CI screening in primary care are the Eurotest, M@T, and Fototest, with the latter being the most efficient as it takes half as long to administer. (AU)

Diagnostic performance of brief cognitive tests in cognitive impairment screening.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: This study aims to assess and compare the diagnostic performance of brief cognitive tests for cognitive impairment (CI) screening recommended by the Spanish guidelines for the integral care of people with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We performed a phase iii study into the accuracy of diagnostic tests, including patients with suspected CI in a primary care setting. All patients completed the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), the Mini Examen Cognoscitivo (MEC), the Short Portable Mental Status Questionnaire (SPMSQ), the Memory Impairment Screen (MIS), the Clock Drawing Test (CDT), the Eurotest, the Fototest, and the Memory Alteration Test (M@T). CI was diagnosed independently by researchers blinded to scores on these tests. Diagnostic performance was evaluated by calculating the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). RESULTS: The study included 141 individuals (86 with CI). The Eurotest and M@T (AUC±SE: 0.91±0.02 and 0.90±0.02, respectively) took longer to administer (mean [SD]: 7.1 [1.8] and 6.8 [2.2]min, respectively) and have significantly better diagnostic performance compared to the MMSE, MEC, SPMSQ, and CDT, but not compared to MIS or Fototest (both with an AUC of 0.87±0.03), with the latter taking less than half as long to administer (2.8 [0.8]min). The M@T and MIS only evaluate memory, and the latter cannot be administered to illiterate people. CONCLUSION: The most advisable tests for CI screening in primary care are the Eurotest, M@T, and Fototest, with the latter being the most efficient as it takes half as long to administer.

Preliminary analysis of a shortened picture version of the Free and Cued Selective Reminding Test.

INTRODUCTION: A picture version of the Free and Cued Selective Reminding Test (FCSRT) would assist in the assessment of memory function in patients with low levels of schooling. A shortened version would improve the test's applicability. OBJECTIVES: To analyse the diagnostic usefulness of a shortened picture version of the FCSRT for distinguishing patients with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) from controls, without excluding participants with a low level of schooling. METHODS: Phase I study of a diagnostic evaluation (convenience sampling; pre-test prevalence 50%). A blinded researcher independently administered the FCSRT to 30 patients with aMCI and 30 controls matched for age, sex, level of schooling and literacy, using images and omitting the usual 30-minutes delayed recall item. Three variables were recorded: free recall, total recall, and cue efficiency. Diagnostic accuracy was calculated using receiver operating characteristic curves and the area under the curve. The Youden index was used to identify optimal cut-off points. RESULTS: Of all participants, 41.7% had not completed primary education. There were no differences between groups as regards sociodemographic variables. Area under the curve was excellent for free recall (0.99), total recall (0.95), and cue efficiency (0.93). The optimal cut-off points were 21/22, 43/44, and < 0.77, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: This preliminary analysis shows that a shortened picture version of the FCSRT may be useful and applicable for the diagnosis of aMCI without excluding individuals with a low level of schooling.

Normative data for the Fototest from neurological patients with no cognitive impairment.

OBJECTIVES: To contribute normative data for the Fototest from neurological patients with no cognitive impairment, including disaggregated data on each domain of the test (naming, free recall, total recall, and naming fluency). MATERIAL AND METHODS: We performed a cross-sectional study in which neurological patients with no cognitive impairment were tested with the Fototest; we recorded total and domain scores. We performed a descriptive study of the total and domain scores, with data disaggregated by sex, age (over/under 65 years), and level of education (primary education completed/not completed; further study completed). RESULTS: We included a sample of 1055 patients, who were mainly women (57.1%), aged over 65 (60.6%), and had a low level of education (38.6% had not completed primary education). Sex, age, and level of education influence total Fototest score (34.6 ±â€¯5.3; P10: 28; P5: 27) and free recall (8.5 ±â€¯2.2; 6; 4), total recall (10.0 ±â€¯1.5; 8; 7), and naming fluency scores (18.7 ±â€¯4.9; 13; 12). For total score, the multivariate analysis revealed values of 1.5 ±â€¯0.3 (ß ±â€¯SD) for sex (female), -2.4 ±â€¯0.3 for age (>65), and -1.6 ±â€¯0.4 and 3.3 ±â€¯0.4 for incomplete primary education and completed post-primary education, respectively (completed primary study was used as a reference). CONCLUSIONS: We provide normative data for total and domain Fototest results for each of the groups defined according to sex, age, and level of education. We also provide a percentile distribution of scores. We hope that these normative data will translate into increases in efficiency in Fototest administration in the clinical setting.

Evaluación de la utilidad diagnóstica y validez discriminativa del Test del Reloj y del Mini-Cog en la detección del deterioro cognitivo / Assessment of the diagnostic accuracy and discriminative validity of the Clock Drawing and Mini-Cog tests in detecting cognitive impairment

Introducción y objetivos: El Mini-Cog es un test cognitivo muy breve de uso extendido que incluye una tarea de memoria y una evaluación simplificada del Test del Reloj (TdR). No existe una evaluación formal del Mini-Cog en español; nuestro objetivo es analizar la utilidad diagnóstica (UD) del Mini-Cog y del TdR para deterioro cognitivo (DC). Métodos: Estudio transversal en el que se han incluido de forma sistemática todos los sujetos atendidos durante un semestre en una consulta de Neurología. La UD se ha evaluado para DC (incluye sujetos con criterios NIA-AA de Mild Cognitive Impairment o demencia) por medio del área bajo la curva ROC (aROC). Se han calculado los parámetros de sensibilidad (S), especificidad (E) y cocientes de probabilidad positivo y negativo (CP+, CP−) para los distintos puntos de corte. Resultados: Se han incluido 581 sujetos (315 DC), 55,1% mujeres y 27,7% con bajo nivel educativo (< estudios primarios). La UD del Mini-Cog es superior a la del TdR (0,88 ± 0,01 (aROC ± EE) vs 0,84 ± 0,01, p < 0,01); para ambos instrumentos la UD disminuye notablemente en sujetos con bajo nivel educativo (0,74 ± 0,05 y 0,75 ± 0,05, respectivamente). El punto de corte 2/3 del Mini-Cog tiene una S de 0,90 (0,87-0,93) y una E de 0,71 (0,65-0,76) y el 5/6 del TdR una S de 0,77 (0,72-0,81) y una E de 0,80 (0,75-0,85). Conclusiones: En consulta de Neurología, el Mini-Cog tiene una UD para DC aceptable, superior a la del TdR; ninguno de ellos es un instrumento adecuado para ser utilizado en sujetos con bajo nivel educativo. (AU)

Introduction and objectives: The Mini-Cog is a very brief, widely used cognitive test that includes a memory task and a simplified assessment of the Clock Drawing Test (CDT). There is not a formal evaluation of the Mini-Cog test in Spanish. This study aims to analyse the diagnostic usefulness of the Mini-Cog and CDT for detecting cognitive impairment (CI). Methods: We performed a cross-sectional study, systematically including all patients who consulted at our neurology clinic over a 6-month period. We assessed diagnostic usefulness for detecting CI (defined according to the National Institute on Aging-Alzheimer's Association criteria for mild cognitive impairment and dementia) according to the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). Sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative likelihood ratios were calculated for each cut-off point. Results: The study included 581 individuals (315 with CI); 55.1% were women and 27.7% had not completed primary studies. The Mini-Cog showed greater diagnostic usefulness than the CDT (AUC ± sensitivity: 0.88 ± 0.01 vs 0.84 ± 0.01; P < .01). Both instruments were less useful for screening in individuals with a low education level (0.74 ± 0.05 vs 0.75 ± 0.05, respectively). A cut-off point of 2/3 in the Mini-Cog achieved a sensitivity of 0.90 (95% CI, 0.87-0.93) and a specificity of 0.71 (95% CI, 0.65-0.76); a cut-off point of 5/6 in the CDT achieved a sensitivity of 0.77 (95% CI, 0.72-0.81) and a specificity of 0.80 (95% CI, 0.75-0.85). Conclusion: In our neurology clinic, the Mini-Cog showed acceptable diagnostic usefulness for detecting CI, greater than that of the CDT; neither test is an appropriate instrument for individuals with a low level of education. (AU)

Valores normativos del Fototest en pacientes neurológicos sin deterioro cognitivo / Normative data for the Fototest from neurological patients with no cognitive impairment

Objetivos: Proporcionar valores normativos del Fototest relativos a pacientes neurológicos sin deterioro cognitivo, que incluyan datos desagregados para cada uno de los dominios que conforman este instrumento (denominación, recuerdo libre, recuerdo total y fluidez de nombres). Material y métodos: Estudio transversal en pacientes neurológicos sin deterioro cognitivo a los que se aplicó el Fototest, registrándose las puntuaciones desagregadas y total. Estudio descriptivo de los resultados totales y desagregados del Fototest estratificados por sexo, edad (< 65/> 65 años) y estudios (< primaria/primaria/> primaria). Resultados: Muestra de 1.055 sujetos con predominio de mujeres (57,1%), mayores de 65 años (60,6%) y con bajo nivel educativo (36,8% sin estudios primarios). La puntuación total del Fototest (34,6 ± 5,3; 28; 27 [media ± DE; P10; P5]), así como las desagregadas para denominación (5,9 ± 0,3; 6; 5), recuerdo libre (8,5 ± 2,2; 6; 4), recuerdo total (10,0 ± 1,5; 8; 7) y fluidez de nombres (18,7 ± 4,9; 13; 12), están influidas por el sexo, la edad y el nivel educativo. Para la puntuación total, los resultados del estudio multivariante son: sexo (mujer) 1,5 ± 0,3 (ß ± EE), edad (> 65 años) −2,4 ± 0,3, estudios < primaria −1,6 ± 0,4 y estudios > primaria 3,3 ± 0,4 (primaria = referencia estudios). Conclusión: Se proporcionan valores normativos (media ± DE, P10; P5) del Fototest para cada uno de los estratos definidos por las variables sexo, edad y estudios tanto para las puntuaciones totales como desagregadas del Fototest, así como una distribución percentual para cada uno de los valores posibles de estas puntuaciones. Estos valores normativos es de esperar que se traduzcan en una mayor eficiencia del Fototest en el ámbito clínico. (AU)

Objectives: To contribute normative data for the Fototest from neurological patients with no cognitive impairment, including disaggregated data on each domain of the test (naming, free recall, total recall, and naming fluency). Material and methods: We performed a cross-sectional study in which neurological patients with no cognitive impairment were tested with the Fototest; we recorded total and domain scores. We performed a descriptive study of the total and domain scores, with data disaggregated by sex, age (over/under 65 years), and level of education (primary education completed/not completed; further study completed). Results: We included a sample of 1,055 patients, who were mainly women (57.1%), aged over 65 (60.6%), and had a low level of education (38.6% had not completed primary education). Sex, age, and level of education influence total Fototest score (34.6 ± 5.3; P10: 28; P5: 27) and naming (5,9±0,3; 6; 5), free recall (8.5 ± 2.2; 6; 4), total recall (10.0 ± 1.5; 8; 7), and naming fluency scores (18.7 ± 4.9; 13; 12). For total score, the multivariate analysis revealed values of 1.5 ± 0.3 (ß ± SE) for sex (female), −2.4 ± 0.3 for age (> 65), and −1.6 ± 0.4 and 3.3 ± 0.4 for incomplete primary education and completed post-primary education, respectively (completed primary study was used as a reference). Conclusion: We provide normative data for total and domain Fototest results for each of the groups defined according to sex, age, and level of education. We also provide a percentile distribution of scores. We hope that these normative data will translate into increases in efficiency in Fototest administration in the clinical setting. (AU)

Assessment of the diagnostic accuracy and discriminative validity of the Clock Drawing and Mini-Cog tests in detecting cognitive impairment.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: The Mini-Cog is a very brief, widely used cognitive test that includes a memory task and a simplified assessment of the Clock Drawing Test (CDT). There is not a formal evaluation of the Mini-Cog test in Spanish. This study aims to analyse the diagnostic usefulness of the Mini-Cog and CDT for detecting cognitive impairment (CI). METHODS: We performed a cross-sectional study, systematically including all patients who consulted at our neurology clinic over a 6-month period. We assessed diagnostic usefulness for detecting CI (defined according to the National Institute on Aging-Alzheimer's Association criteria for mild cognitive impairment and dementia) according to the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). Sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative likelihood ratios were calculated for each cut-off point. RESULTS: The study included 581 individuals (315 with CI); 55.1% were women and 27.7% had not completed primary studies. The Mini-Cog showed greater diagnostic usefulness than the CDT (AUC ±â€¯sensitivity: 0.88 ±â€¯0.01 vs 0.84 ±â€¯0.01; P < .01). Both instruments were less useful for screening in individuals with a low education level (0.74 ±â€¯0.05 vs 0.75 ±â€¯0.05, respectively). A cut-off point of 2/3 in the Mini-Cog achieved a sensitivity of 0.90 (95% CI, 0.87-0.93) and a specificity of 0.71 (95% CI, 0.65-0.76); a cut-off point of 5/6 in the CDT achieved a sensitivity of 0.77 (95% CI, 0.72-0.81) and a specificity of 0.80 (95% CI, 0.75-0.85). CONCLUSION: In our neurology clinic, the Mini-Cog showed acceptable diagnostic usefulness for detecting CI, greater than that of the CDT; neither test is an appropriate instrument for individuals with a low level of education.

Diagnostic accuracy and predictive validity of associated use of Fototest and Mini-Cog in cognitive impairment. / Utilidad diagnóstica y validez predictiva del uso conjunto de Fototest y Mini-Cog en deterioro cognitivo.

INTRODUCTION: The Fototest and Mini-Cog include all the domains that are necessary in a cognitive assessment. This study aims to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of the combined use of both instruments for detecting cognitive impairment. METHODS: We performed a phase iii diagnostic accuracy study with 2 independent samples: STUDY, which included 448 participants randomly allocated to 2 datasets (BASE [80%] and TEST [20%]); and EXTERNAL, which included 61 participants. The index test was consecutive administration of the Fototest and Mini-Cog, and the reference test was formal cognitive assessment. We evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of two-step vs. consecutive application of the tests and simple (Comb-Simple), logistic regression (Comb-LR), and random decision tree (Comb-RDT) models of their combined use for detecting cognitive impairment (Global Deterioration Scale score ≥ 3). We performed an exploratory analysis of the BASE dataset, selecting criteria that maximise accuracy; a pre-specified analysis was used to evaluate the selected criteria in the TEST and EXTERNAL datasets. RESULTS: The diagnostic accuracy (95% confidence interval) of the combined models in the BASE dataset (Comb-Simple: 88.3 [88.5-91.4]; Comb-LR: 91.6 [88.2-94.3]; Comb-RDT 95.2 [92.5-97.2]) was significantly higher than the individual values observed for the Mini-Cog and Fototest (81.6 [77.1-85.4] and 84.9 [80.8-88.5], respectively). These results were replicated in the TEST (Comb-Simple: 88.9; Comb-LR: 95.6; Comb-RDT: 92.2) and EXTERNAL datasets (Comb-Simple: 91.8; Comb-LR: 90.2; Comb-RDT: 88.5). Two-step application had the same diagnostic accuracy than consecutive application but required less time (mean [SD] of 197.3 s [56.7] vs. 233.9 s [45.2]; P<.0001). CONCLUSIONS: Combined application of the Fototest and Mini-Cog takes less than 4minutes and improves the diagnostic accuracy of both instruments. Two-step application is more efficient as it requires less time while maintaining the same diagnostic accuracy.

Diagnostic performance of brief cognitive tests in cognitive impairment screening. / Utilidad diagnóstica de test cognitivos breves en el cribado de deterioro cognitivo.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: This study aims to assess and compare the diagnostic performance of brief cognitive tests for cognitive impairment (CI) screening recommended by the Spanish guidelines for the integral care of people with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We performed a phase iii study into the accuracy of diagnostic tests, including patients with suspected CI in a primary care setting. All patients completed the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), the Mini Examen Cognoscitivo (MEC), the Short Portable Mental Status Questionnaire (SPMSQ), the Memory Impairment Screen (MIS), the Clock Drawing Test (CDT), the Eurotest, the Fototest, and the Memory Alteration Test (M@T). CI was diagnosed independently by researchers blinded to scores on these tests. Diagnostic performance was evaluated by calculating the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). RESULTS: The study included 141 individuals (86 with CI). The Eurotest and M@T (AUC ± SE: 0.91 ± 0.02 and 0.90 ± 0.02, respectively) took longer to administer (mean [SD]: 7.1 [1.8] and 6.8 [2.2] min, respectively) and have significantly better diagnostic performance compared to the MMSE, MEC, SPMSQ, and CDT, but not compared to MIS or Fototest (both with an AUC of 0.87 ± 0.03), with the latter taking less than half as long to administer (2.8 [0.8] min). The M@T and MIS only evaluate memory, and the latter cannot be administered to illiterate people. CONCLUSION: The most advisable tests for CI screening in primary care are the Eurotest, M@T, and Fototest, with the latter being the most efficient as it takes half as long to administer.

[Band sign in primary lateral sclerosis]. / Signo de la banda en la esclerosis lateral primaria.

TITLE: Signo de la banda en la esclerosis lateral primaria.

Preliminary analysis of a shortened picture version of the Free and Cued Selective Reminding Test. / Evaluación preliminar de una versión pictórica y abreviada del Free and Cued Selective Reminding Test.

INTRODUCTION: A picture version of the Free and Cued Selective Reminding Test (FCSRT) would assist in the assessment of memory function in patients with low levels of schooling. A shortened version would improve the test's applicability. OBJECTIVES: To analyse the diagnostic usefulness of a shortened picture version of the FCSRT for distinguishing patients with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) from controls, without excluding participants with a low level of schooling. METHODS: Phase I study of a diagnostic evaluation (convenience sampling; pre-test prevalence 50%). A blinded researcher independently administered the FCSRT to 30 patients with aMCI and 30 controls matched for age, sex, level of schooling and literacy, using images and omitting the usual 30-minute delayed recall item. Three variables were recorded: free recall, total recall, and cue efficiency. Diagnostic accuracy was calculated using receiver operating characteristic curves and the area under the curve. The Youden index was used to identify optimal cut-off points. RESULTS: Of all participants, 41.7% had not completed primary education. There were no differences between groups as regards sociodemographic variables. Area under the curve was excellent for free recall (0.99), total recall (0.95), and cue efficiecy (0.93). The optimal cut-off points were 21/22, 43/44, and < 0.77, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: This preliminary analysis shows that a shortened picture version of the FCSRT may be useful and applicable for the diagnosis of aMCI without excluding individuals with a low level of schooling.

Assessment of the diagnostic accuracy and discriminative validity of the Clock Drawing and Mini-Cog tests in detecting cognitive impairment. / Evaluación de la utilidad diagnóstica y validez discriminativa del Test del Reloj y del Mini-Cog en la detección del deterioro cognitivo.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: The Mini-Cog is a very brief, widely used cognitive test that includes a memory task and a simplified assessment of the Clock Drawing Test (CDT). There is not a formal evaluation of the Mini-Cog test in Spanish. This study aims to analyse the diagnostic usefulness of the Mini-Cog and CDT for detecting cognitive impairment (CI). METHODS: We performed a cross-sectional study, systematically including all patients who consulted at our neurology clinic over a 6-month period. We assessed diagnostic usefulness for detecting CI (defined according to the National Institute on Aging-Alzheimer's Association criteria for mild cognitive impairment and dementia) according to the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). Sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative likelihood ratios were calculated for each cut-off point. RESULTS: The study included 581 individuals (315 with CI); 55.1% were women and 27.7% had not completed primary studies. The Mini-Cog showed greater diagnostic usefulness than the CDT (AUC±sensitivity: 0.88±0.01 vs 0.84±0.01; P<.01). Both instruments were less useful for screening in individuals with a low education level (0.74±0.05 vs 0.75±0.05, respectively). A cut-off point of 2/3 in the Mini-Cog achieved a sensitivity of 0.90 (95%CI, 0.87-0.93) and a specificity of 0.71 (95%CI, 0.65-0.76); a cut-off point of 5/6 in the CDT achieved a sensitivity of 0.77 (95%CI, 0.72-0.81) and a specificity of 0.80 (95%CI, 0.75-0.85). CONCLUSION: In our neurology clinic, the Mini-Cog showed acceptable diagnostic usefulness for detecting CI, greater than that of the CDT; neither test is an appropriate instrument for individuals with a low level of education.

[«Apuntes en Neurologia¼ (Notes in Neurology): a synthesis of the evidence on common paroxysmal neurological disorders and on neurodegenerative disorders]. / «Apuntes en Neurologia¼: una sintesis de la evidencia en trastornos neurologicos comunes paroxisticos y en trastornos neurodegenerativos.

«Apuntes en Neurologia¼ is an initiative in which prominent national and international leaders, with broad academic recognition, came together to synthesise the most outstanding clinical aspects within their area of interest and to discuss the latest developments in a more accessible language. Understanding the factors that affect the onset and progression of any neurological disease through a review is important to be able to develop strategies to reduce the burden of these diseases. Moreover, knowledge of the clinical aspects is essential to solve the problems of daily clinical practice. The data collected here reflect the weight of evidence and some of them anticipate a promising future in the treatment of these diseases. This first edition focuses on common paroxysmal neurological disorders such as migraine, epilepsy and sleep disorders, as well as neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson's disease and cognitive impairment. These are clearly different pathologies, although some of them such as migraine and epilepsy, may share clinical symptoms. Sleep disorders, however, are important manifestations of neurodegenerative diseases that are sometimes clinically apparent long before the onset of other neurological symptoms. After recalling pathophysiology and diagnosis, the current review focuses on bringing together the main advances in five of the major neurological diseases.

TITLE: «Apuntes en Neurologia¼: una sintesis de la evidencia en trastornos neurologicos comunes paroxisticos y en trastornos neurodegenerativos.«Apuntes en Neurologia¼ es una iniciativa en la cual lideres de primera linea nacional e internacional, con amplio reconocimiento academico, se reunieron para sintetizar los aspectos clinicos mas destacables dentro de su area de interes y acercar las novedades en una lengua mas proxima. Entender los factores que afectan al inicio y progresion de cualquier enfermedad neurologica a traves de una revision es importante para el desarrollo de estrategias en pro de reducir la carga de estas enfermedades, y conocer los aspectos clinicos es esencial para poder resolver los problemas de la practica clinica diaria. Los datos aqui recogidos reflejan el peso de la evidencia y algunos de ellos anticipan un futuro prometedor en el tratamiento de estas enfermedades. Esta primera edicion se centra en trastornos neurologicos comunes paroxisticos como la migraña, la epilepsia y las alteraciones del sueño, y en trastornos neurodegenerativos como la enfermedad de Parkinson y el deterioro cognitivo. Se trata de patologias claramente diferentes, si bien algunas de ellas, como la migraña y la epilepsia, pueden compartir sintomatologia clinica. Los trastornos del sueño, por su parte, son manifestaciones importantes de enfermedades neurodegenerativas que, en ocasiones, son clinicamente evidentes mucho antes del inicio de otros sintomas neurologicos. Tras recordar la fisiopatologia y el diagnostico, la revision actual se centra en acercar los principales avances en cinco de las principales enfermedades neurologicas.

Normative data for the Fototest from neurological patients with no cognitive impairment. / Valores normativos del Fototest en pacientes neurológicos sin deterioro cognitivo.

OBJECTIVES: To contribute normative data for the Fototest from neurological patients with no cognitive impairment, including disaggregated data on each domain of the test (naming, free recall, total recall, and naming fluency). MATERIAL AND METHODS: We performed a cross-sectional study in which neurological patients with no cognitive impairment were tested with the Fototest; we recorded total and domain scores. We performed a descriptive study of the total and domain scores, with data disaggregated by sex, age (over/under 65 years), and level of education (primary education completed/not completed; further study completed). RESULTS: We included a sample of 1,055 patients, who were mainly women (57.1%), aged over 65 (60.6%), and had a low level of education (38.6% had not completed primary education). Sex, age, and level of education influence total Fototest score (34.6 ± 5.3; P10: 28; P5: 27) and naming (5,9±0,3; 6; 5), free recall (8.5 ± 2.2; 6; 4), total recall (10.0 ± 1.5; 8; 7), and naming fluency scores (18.7 ± 4.9; 13; 12). For total score, the multivariate analysis revealed values of 1.5 ± 0.3 (ß ± SE) for sex (female), -2.4 ± 0.3 for age (> 65), and -1.6 ± 0.4 and 3.3 ± 0.4 for incomplete primary education and completed post-primary education, respectively (completed primary study was used as a reference). CONCLUSION: We provide normative data for total and domain Fototest results for each of the groups defined according to sex, age, and level of education. We also provide a percentile distribution of scores. We hope that these normative data will translate into increases in efficiency in Fototest administration in the clinical setting.

Estudio ROSA: validación de la versión española de la Relevant Outcome Scale for Alzheimer’s Disease / Validation of the Spanish-language version of the Relevant Outcome Scale for Alzheimer's Disease

Introducción y objetivos: La escala Relevant Outcome Scale for Alzheimer's Disease (ROSA) es una herramienta útil para la evaluación y seguimiento de pacientes con demencia. Nuestro objetivo es evaluar la validez y fiabilidad de una versión española de la escala ROSA. Pacientes y métodos: Estudio multicéntrico nacional en el que 39 investigadores han incluido 237 sujetos con enfermedad de Alzheimer (78 en estadio leve, 79 moderado y 80 grave) a los que se les ha aplicado Mini-Mental, Fototest, Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI), escala de Blessed y una versión adaptada al español de la escala ROSA. En una submuestra de 40 sujetos se realizó un retest en los 14 días siguientes a la evaluación inicial. La validez de constructo se ha evaluado mediante el coeficiente correlación de Spearman (r), la consistencia interna con el coeficiente alfa de Cronbach (alfa) y la fiabilidad test-retest con el coeficiente correlación intraclase (CCI). Resultados: La escala ROSA se aplica en 13,8 ± 7,4 min y sus resultados están asociados de forma significativa al estadio clínico (leve 116,7 ± 23,1, moderado 92,9 ± 19,8 y grave 64,3 ± 22,6), Mini-Mental (r = 0,68), Fototest (r = 0,63), NPI (r = 0,53) y escala de Blessed (r = -0,80). La escala ROSA muestra una alta consistencia interna (alfa = 0,90) y una excelente fiabilidad test-retest (CCI = 0,97). Conclusión: La versión española de la escala ROSA es un instrumento breve, válido y fiable para la evaluación global de pacientes con demencia (AU)

Introduction and objectives: The Relevant Outcome Scale for Alzheimer's Disease (ROSA) is a useful tool for evaluating and monitoring dementia patients. This study aims to evaluate the validity and reliability of the Spanish version of ROSA. Patients and methods: Spanish multicentre study involving 39 researchers and including 237 patients with Alzheimer disease (78 mild, 79 moderate, and 80 severe). The patients were tested with the following: Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Fototest, Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI), Blessed dementia scale, and a Spanish-language version of ROSA. A subsample of 40 subjects was retested in the 14 days following the initial evaluation. The construct validity was evaluated with the Spearman correlation coefficient (r), internal consistency with Cronbach’s alpha (alpha), and test-retest reliability with the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Results: ROSA requires 13.8±7.4 minutes to administer and its results show a significant association with the clinical stage of AD (mild, 116.7±23.1; moderate, 92.9±19.8; and severe, 64.3±22.6), and with results on the MMSE (r=0.68), Fototest (r=0.63), NPI (r=0.53), and Blessed dementia scale (r=-0.80). ROSA shows high internal consistency (alpha=0.90) and excellent test-retest reliability (ICC0.97). Conclusion: The Spanish version of ROSA is a brief, valid, and reliable tool permitting overall evaluation of patients with dementia (AU)

Validation of the Spanish-language version of the Relevant Outcome Scale for Alzheimer's Disease. / Estudio ROSA: validación de la versión española de la Relevant Outcome Scale for Alzheimer's Disease.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: The Relevant Outcome Scale for Alzheimer's Disease (ROSA) is a useful tool for evaluating and monitoring dementia patients. This study aims to evaluate the validity and reliability of the Spanish version of ROSA. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Spanish multicentre study involving 39 researchers and including 237 patients with Alzheimer disease (78 mild, 79 moderate, and 80 severe). The patients were tested with the following: Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Fototest, Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI), Blessed dementia scale, and a Spanish-language version of ROSA. A subsample of 40 subjects was retested in the 14 days following the initial evaluation. The construct validity was evaluated with the Spearman correlation coefficient (r), internal consistency with Cronbach's alpha (alpha), and test-retest reliability with the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). RESULTS: ROSA requires 13.8±7.4minutes to administer and its results show a significant association with the clinical stage of AD (mild, 116.7±23.1; moderate, 92.9±19.8; and severe, 64.3±22.6), and with results on the MMSE (r=0.68), Fototest (r=0.63), NPI (r=0.53), and Blessed dementia scale (r=-0.80). ROSA shows high internal consistency (alpha=0.90) and excellent test-retest reliability (ICC0.97). CONCLUSION: The Spanish version of ROSA is a brief, valid, and reliable tool permitting overall evaluation of patients with dementia.

Aplicación práctica de los test cognitivos breves / Practical application of brief cognitive tests

Introducción: Los test cognitivos breves (TCB) pueden ayudar a detectar el deterioro cognitivo (DC) en el ámbito asistencial. Se han desarrollado y/o validado varios TCB en nuestro país, pero no existen recomendaciones específicas para su uso. Desarrollo: Revisión de estudios sobre el rendimiento diagnóstico en la detección del DC llevados a cabo en España con TCB que requieran menos de 20 min y recomendaciones de uso consensuadas por expertos, sobre la base de las características de los TCB y de los estudios disponibles. Conclusión: El Fototest, el Memory Impairment Screen (MIS) y el Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) son las opciones más recomendables para el primer nivel asistencial, pudiendo añadirse otros test (Test del Reloj [TR] y test de fluidez verbal [TFV]) en caso de resultado negativo y queja o sospecha persistente (aproximación escalonada). En el segundo nivel asistencial es conveniente una evaluación sistemática de las distintas áreas cognitivas, que puede llevarse a cabo con instrumentos como el Montreal Cognitive Assessment, el MMSE, el Rowland Universal Dementia Assessment o el Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination, o bien mediante el uso escalonado o combinado de herramientas más simples (TR, TFV, Fototest, MIS, Test de Alteración de la Memoria y Eurotest). El uso asociado de cuestionarios cumplimentados por un informador (CCI) aporta valor añadido a los TCB en la detección del DC. La elección de los instrumentos vendrá condicionada por las características del paciente, la experiencia del clínico y el tiempo disponible. Los TCB y los CCI deben reforzar -pero nunca suplantar- el juicio clínico, la comunicación con el paciente y el diálogo interprofesional

Introduction: Brief cognitive tests (BCT) may help detect cognitive impairment (CI) in the clinical setting. Several BCT have been developed and/or validated in our country, but we lack specific recommendations for use. Development: Review of studies on the diagnostic accuracy of BCT for CI, using studies conducted in Spain with BCT which take less than 20 min. We provide recommendations of use based on expert consensus and established on the basis of BCT characteristics and study results. Conclusion: The Fototest, the Memory Impairment Screen (MIS) and the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) are the preferred options in primary care; other BCT (Clock Drawing Test [CDT], test of verbal fluency [TVF]) may also be administered in cases of negative results with persistent suspected CI or concern (stepwise approach). In the specialised care setting, a systematic assessment of the different cognitive domains should be conducted using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, the MMSE, the Rowland Universal Dementia Assessment, the Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination, or by means of a stepwise or combined approach involving more simple tests (CDT, TVF, Fototest, MIS, Memory Alteration Test, Eurotest). Associating an informant questionnaire (IQ) with the BCT is superior to the BCT alone for the detection of CI. The choice of instruments will depend on the patient's characteristics, the clinician's experience, and available time. The BCT and IQ must reinforce - but never substitute - clinical judgment, patient-doctor communication, and inter-professional dialogue

Practical application of brief cognitive tests.

INTRODUCTION: Brief cognitive tests (BCT) may help detect cognitive impairment (CI) in the clinical setting. Several BCT have been developed and/or validated in our country, but we lack specific recommendations for use. DEVELOPMENT: Review of studies on the diagnostic accuracy of BCT for CI, using studies conducted in Spain with BCT which take less than 20 min. We provide recommendations of use based on expert consensus and established on the basis of BCT characteristics and study results. CONCLUSION: The Fototest, the Memory Impairment Screen (MIS) and the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) are the preferred options in primary care; other BCT (Clock Drawing Test [CDT], test of verbal fluency [TVF]) may also be administered in cases of negative results with persistent suspected CI or concern (stepwise approach). In the specialised care setting, a systematic assessment of the different cognitive domains should be conducted using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, the MMSE, the Rowland Universal Dementia Assessment, the Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination, or by means of a stepwise or combined approach involving more simple tests (CDT, TVF, Fototest, MIS, Memory Alteration Test, Eurotest). Associating an informant questionnaire (IQ) with the BCT is superior to the BCT alone for the detection of CI. The choice of instruments will depend on the patient's characteristics, the clinician's experience, and available time. The BCT and IQ must reinforce - but never substitute - clinical judgment, patient-doctor communication, and inter-professional dialogue.