Читать книгу Neurology - Charles H. Clarke - Страница 164

Cognitive Screening Tests have been mentioned. Detailed testing is sometimes of great value, and outside the remit of a general neurologist. Reports tend to vary in emphasis, some dwelling on psychiatric diagnoses while others focus upon cognitive function.

Intellectual function overall: the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale Revised (WAIS‐R) is divided into subtests. The Verbal IQ with the National Adult Reading Test (NART) provides a measure of the premorbid optimal level of function – reading vocabulary is relatively resistant to neurodegenerative processes that degrade cognition. Performance IQ gives a measure of present overall cognitive, especially, non‐verbal ability.

Specific tests address memory functions, language, literacy, calculation, perceptual function, frontal/executive function, attention validity/credibility and effort. The formulation draws together the results: problems with concentration and effort must be given appropriate weighting, especially when pain, depression and anxiety are present.