Computerized support for neuropsychological test interpretation in clinical situations

Abstract

This study describes and evaluates a computer program developed for improving the speed and quality of neuropsychological test interpretation. The study shows that the within-session (i.e., during testing session) interpretation of test results can support the hypothesis-testing approach. Within-session interpretation facilitates flexible selection of tests according to patient-specific criteria. The core of the program is a syndrome profile that reflects the likelihood of each predefined cognitive function as an explanatory hypothesis for poor test results. A clinical comparison shows clear consistency between the syndromes detected by the program and the diagnostic reports created by experienced neuropsychologists. The overall results encourage conducting further studies on modeling the within-session decision making process for patient-specific neuropsychological testing.