A validation study for remote testing of cognitive function in multiple sclerosis
Lisa F. Barcellos, Mary Horton, Xiaorong Shao, Kalliope H. Bellesis, Terrence Chinn, Emmanuelle Waubant, Nandini Bakshi, Jackie Marcus, Ralph H. B. Benedict, Catherine Schaefer
Abstract
Objectives: Determine the validity and reliability of a remote, technician-guided cognitive assessment for multiple sclerosis (MS), incorporating the Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT) and the California Verbal Learning Test, Second Edition (CVLT-II). Methods: In 100 patients, we compared conventional in-person testing to remote, web-assisted assessments, and in 36 patients, we assessed test–retest reliability using two equivalent, alternative forms. Results: In-person and remote-administered SDMT ( r = 0.85) and CVLT-II ( r = 0.71) results were very similar. Reliability was adequate and alternative forms of SDMT ( r = 0.92) and CVLT-II ( r = 0.81) produced similar results. Conclusions: Findings indicate remote assessment can provide valid, reliable measures of cognitive function in MS.