Validation of a Brief Computerized Cognitive Assessment in Multiple Sclerosis (BCCAMS) and comparison with reference batteries

Abstract

Background: The Brief Computerized Cognitive Assessment in Multiple Sclerosis (BCCAMS) is a short neuropsychological battery for persons with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). Objectives: The main objective of the study is to validate the BCCAMS. Methods: PwMS and healthy subjects (HS) were evaluated using the BCCAMS which include two computerized tests, the Computerized Speed Cognitive Test and the Computerized Episodic Visual Memory Test (CEVMT), a newly developed visuospatial memory test, and the French learning test. The Minimal Assessment of Cognitive Function in MS (MACFIMS), including the Brief International Cognitive Assessment for Multiple Sclerosis (BICAMS) tests, was also administered. Regression-based norms of the BCCAMS were calculated in 276 HS. BCCAMS was compared with BICAMS and MACFIMS for detection of cognitive impairment (CI). Results: Out of 120 PwMS, CI was detected using the BCCAMS, BICAMS (one impaired test), and MACFIMS (two impaired tests) in 59.1%, 50%, and 37.9%, respectively. The BCCAMS produced the same predictive value as that of the BICAMS battery for detecting CI in the MACFIMS. Conclusion: This study validated the BCCAMS as a validated computerized short assessment for information processing speed and learning in MS.