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Sperling SA, Acheson SK, Fox-Fuller J, Colvin MK, Harder L, Cullum CM, Randolph JJ, Carter KR, Espe-Pfeifer P, Lacritz LH, Arnett PA, Gillaspy SR. Tele-Neuropsychology: From Science to Policy to Practice. Arch Clin Neuropsychol 2024; 39:227-248. [PMID: 37715508 DOI: 10.1093/arclin/acad066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/17/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The primary aim of this paper is to accelerate the number of randomized experimental studies of the reliability and validity in-home tele-neuropsychological testing (tele-np-t). METHOD We conducted a critical review of the tele-neuropsychology literature. We discuss this research in the context of the United States' public and private healthcare payer systems, including the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) coding system's telehealth lists, and existing disparities in healthcare access. RESULTS The number of tele-np publications has been stagnant since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. There are less published experimental studies of tele-neuropsychology (tele-np), and particularly in-home tele-np-t, than other tele-np publications. There is strong foundational evidence of the acceptability, feasibility, and reliability of tele-np-t, but relatively few studies of the reliability and validity of in-home tele-np-t using randomization methodology. CONCLUSIONS More studies of the reliability and validity of in-home tele-np-t using randomization methodology are necessary to support inclusion of tele-np-t codes on the CMS and CPT telehealth lists, and subsequently, the integration and delivery of in-home tele-np-t services across providers and institutions. These actions are needed to maintain equitable reimbursement of in-home tele-np-t services and address the widespread disparities in healthcare access.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott A Sperling
- Department of Neurology, Center for Neurological Restoration, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | | | - Joshua Fox-Fuller
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mary K Colvin
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lana Harder
- Children's Health, Children's Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - C Munro Cullum
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - John J Randolph
- Department of Psychiatry, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH, USA
- Randolph Neuropsychology Associates, PLLC, Lebanon, NH, USA
| | | | - Patricia Espe-Pfeifer
- Department of Psychiatry and Pediatrics, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Laura H Lacritz
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Peter A Arnett
- Department of Psychology, The Pennsylvania State University, State College, PA, USA
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Chen VL, Hildebrand AD, Mañago MM, Cameron M. Self-assessed Dynamic Gait Index correlates with physical therapist assessed Dynamic Gait Index in people with multiple sclerosis. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2023; 80:105101. [PMID: 37951094 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2023.105101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Dynamic Gait Index (DGI) is a clinical measure of walking ability comprised of eight walking tasks. In people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) the DGI has demonstrated validity, reliability, and ability to identify fallers. A self-assessed version of the DGI that demonstrates concurrent validity with the original DGI in people with MS would be valuable for remote assessment of walking ability. We therefore developed a questionnaire-based self-assessed version of the DGI (sDGI) that asks participants to self-rate their predicted ability to perform the eight DGI walking tasks. The purpose of this study was to determine the validity and internal consistency of the sDGI in people with MS who had self-reported gait impairment. METHODS We enrolled 53 ambulatory people with MS with self-reported gait impairment. Participants completed the sDGI, the Multiple Sclerosis Walking Scale-12 (MSWS-12), the Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status (TICS), and self-reported their number of falls in the past 3 months. Then, up to 4 weeks later, they completed the DGI by in-person evaluation by a physical therapist (PT). We calculated the internal consistency of the sDGI and concordance between the sDGI and DGI. To determine if cognition impacted concordance, we calculated concordance in the cognitively impaired and non-impaired groups and also tested the difference between groups. We also calculated correlation between the sDGI and the DGI and the MSWS-12. The ability of the sDGI and the DGI to identify fallers was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic curves. RESULTS 51 participants completed the study. They had a mean age of 60.9 (SD 11.5) years, median PDDS of 4.0 (interquartile range 3, 5), 32 % used walking aids, 25 % were cognitively impaired, and 62 % were female. The sDGI was internally consistent (Cronbach's alpha 0.85, 95 % CI 0.76, 0.90) but was not concordant (CCC = 0.45, 95 % CI: 0.28-0.60) with the DGI. Concordance between the sDGI and DGI was not different for cognitively intact versus cognitively impaired individuals. The sDGI was moderately correlated with the DGI (R = 0.64, p < 0.01) and strongly correlated with the MSWS-12 (R = -0.71, p < 0.01). Neither the sDGI nor the DGI identified fallers in this sample. CONCLUSION The moderate to strong correlation among the sDGI, DGI and MSWS-12 supports the validity of the sDGI as a measure of walking ability in people with MS. However, because there is poor concordance between the sDGI and the DGI performed in clinic by a PT in both cognitively intact and cognitively impaired participants, the sDGI should not be used as a substitute for the DGI. The sDGI could be used as a screening tool because most participants underestimated their walking performance compared to assessment by a PT so the sDGI would be unlikely to miss poor walking ability. As neither the sDGI nor the DGI identified fallers in this sample, our results do not support using these tools to identify fallers in people with MS and self-reported gait impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vicky L Chen
- Department of Neurology, VA Portland Health Care System, 3710 SW US Veterans Hospital Road, Portland, OR 97239, USA; Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR 97239, USA.
| | - Andrea D Hildebrand
- Department of Neurology, VA Portland Health Care System, 3710 SW US Veterans Hospital Road, Portland, OR 97239, USA; Biostatistics & Design Program, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Mark M Mañago
- Physical Therapy Program, Department of Physical Medicine Rehabilitation, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Denver, 13001 E 17th Pl, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center, 1700N Wheeling St, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Michelle Cameron
- Department of Neurology, VA Portland Health Care System, 3710 SW US Veterans Hospital Road, Portland, OR 97239, USA; Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR 97239, USA
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Guerrero KS, Horton MK, Choudhary V, Bellesis KH, Dorin P, Mei J, Chinn T, Meyers TJ, Schaefer CA, Barcellos LF. Adverse childhood experiences in early life increase the odds of depression among adults with multiple sclerosis. Mult Scler J Exp Transl Clin 2023; 9:20552173231202638. [PMID: 37808459 PMCID: PMC10552460 DOI: 10.1177/20552173231202638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Adverse childhood experiences are demonstrated risk factors for depression, a common co-morbidity of multiple sclerosis, but are understudied among people with multiple sclerosis. Objective Estimate the association between adverse childhood experiences and depression among 1,990 adults with multiple sclerosis. Methods Participants were members of Kaiser Permanente Northern California from two studies between 2006 and 2021 and were diagnosed with multiple sclerosis by a neurologist. Adverse childhood experiences were assessed using two instruments, including the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. Participants self-reported ever experiencing a major depressive episode. Meta-analysis random effects models and logistic regression were used to estimate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) to assess the relationship between adverse childhood experiences and a history of depression across study samples. Adverse childhood experiences were expressed as any/none, individual events, and counts. Models adjusted for sex, birth year, race, and ethnicity. Results Exposure to any adverse childhood experiences increased the odds of depression in people with multiple sclerosis (OR: 1.71, 95% CI: 1.21-2.42). Several individual adverse childhood experiences were also strongly associated with depression, including "significant abuse or neglect" (OR: 2.79, 95% CI: 2.11-3.68). Conclusion Findings suggest that adverse childhood experiences are associated with depression among people with multiple sclerosis. Screening for depression should be done regularly, especially among people with multiple sclerosis with a history of adverse childhood experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mary K Horton
- Division of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of California Berkeley, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Lisa F Barcellos
- Division of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of California Berkeley, CA, USA
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Franco-Rocha OY, Mahaffey ML, Matsui W, Kesler SR. Remote assessment of cognitive dysfunction in hematologic malignancies using web-based neuropsychological testing. Cancer Med 2023; 12:6068-6076. [PMID: 36221244 PMCID: PMC10028155 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.5331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cognitive impairment is a frequent adverse effect of cancer and its therapies. As neuropsychological assessment is not often standard of care for patients with non-CNS disease, efficient, practical assessment tools are required to track cognition across the disease course. We examined cognitive functioning using a web-based cognitive testing battery to determine if it could detect differences between patients with cancer and controls. METHODS We enrolled 22 patients with multiple myeloma (MM) or non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) and 40 healthy controls (mean age = 56 ± 11 years, 52% male). Participants completed the BrainCheck cognitive testing battery and online versions of select measures from the Patient Reported Outcome Measures Information System (PROMIS) during a video conference. MANOVA was used to compare BrainCheck and PROMIS scores between groups controlling for age and sex. An exploratory linear regression analysis was conducted within the cancer group to determine potential contributors to cognitive functioning. RESULTS All participants except for one control completed the online assessment measures without difficulty. Compared to controls, the cancer group demonstrated significantly lower scores in objective and subjective cognitive function, physical functioning, and social role performance and elevated fatigue scores. Corticosteroid treatment, immunotherapy, lower physical functioning, lower income, and older age significantly contributed to lower cognitive function (adjusted R2 = 0.925, F = 19.63, p = 0.002). CONCLUSION Remote assessment of cognitive and psychosocial functioning is feasible with patients with cancer following treatments. The BrainCheck cognitive testing battery has the potential to detect differences in cognition between patients with cancer and controls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oscar Y Franco-Rocha
- Brain Health Neuroscience Lab, School of Nursing, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Misty L Mahaffey
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford Health Care, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - William Matsui
- Department of Oncology, Dell School of Medicine, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Shelli R Kesler
- Brain Health Neuroscience Lab, School of Nursing, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
- Department of Oncology, Dell School of Medicine, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
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Ganesh A, Barber PA. The Cognitive Sequelae of Transient Ischemic Attacks—Recent Insights and Future Directions. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11092637. [PMID: 35566762 PMCID: PMC9104376 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11092637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
There is now considerable evidence that Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) carries important sequelae beyond the risk of recurrent stroke, particularly with respect to peri-event and post-event cognitive dysfunction and subsequent cognitive decline. The occurrence of a TIA could provide an important window in understanding the relationship of early mixed vascular-neurodegenerative cognitive decline, and by virtue of their clinical relevance as a “warning” event, TIAs could also furnish the opportunity to act preventatively not only for stroke prevention but also for dementia prevention. In this review, we discuss the current state of the literature regarding the cognitive sequelae associated with TIA, reviewing important challenges in the field. In particular, we discuss definitional and methodological challenges in the study of TIA-related cognitive impairment, confounding factors in the cognitive evaluation of these patients, and provide an overview of the evidence on both transient and long-term cognitive impairment after TIA. We compile recent insights from clinical studies regarding the predictors and mediators of cognitive decline in these patients and highlight important future directions for work in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aravind Ganesh
- Calgary Stroke Program, Departments of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Calgary Cumming School of Medicine, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada;
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary Cumming School of Medicine, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary Cumming School of Medicine, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Philip A. Barber
- Calgary Stroke Program, Departments of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Calgary Cumming School of Medicine, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada;
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary Cumming School of Medicine, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary Cumming School of Medicine, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
- Department of Radiology, University of Calgary Cumming School of Medicine, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
- Correspondence:
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Ghadiri F, Naser Moghadasi A, Sahraian MA. Telemedicine as a strategic intervention for cognitive rehabilitation in MS patients during COVID-19. Acta Neurol Belg 2022; 122:23-29. [PMID: 35094365 PMCID: PMC8801040 DOI: 10.1007/s13760-022-01875-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The recent COVID-19 pandemic has taken the lives of nearly 5.2 million up to now. With no definite treatment and considering close contact as the primary mode of transmission, telemedicine has emerged as an essential medical care platform. Virtual medical communications have offered clinicians the opportunity to visit and follow up on patients more efficiently during the lockdown. Not only has telemedicine improved multiple sclerosis (MS) patients’ health and quality of life during the pandemic, but it could also be used as a cost-effective platform for physical and cognitive MS rehabilitation programs. Cognitive impairment is a common problem among MS patients even at the initial phases of the disease. Rehabilitation training programs such as RehaCom, BrainHQ, Speed of Processing Training (PST), and COGNI-TRAcK have made great strides in improving a wide range of cognitive functions that MS patients are challenged with. Regarding the impact of COVID-19 on the cognitive aspects of MS patients, efforts to implement rehabilitation training applications have been increased. Web-based mobile applications, virtual visits, and telephone follow-ups are examples of such efforts. Having said that, limitations such as privacy, socioeconomic disparities, e-health literacy, study settings, and challenges of neurologic examinationss have been raised. Since most MS patients are young, all the beneficiaries are encouraged to embrace the research in the field to pave the road for more feasible and efficient ways of cognitive enhancement in MS patients.
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Munro CE, Buckley R, Vannini P, DeMuro C, Sperling R, Rentz DM, Johnson K, Gatchel JR, Amariglio R. Longitudinal Trajectories of Participant- and Study Partner-Rated Cognitive Decline, in Relation to Alzheimer's Disease Biomarkers and Mood Symptoms. Front Aging Neurosci 2022; 13:806432. [PMID: 35173601 PMCID: PMC8841868 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2021.806432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Whereas discrepancies between participant- and study partner-reported cognitive concerns on the Alzheimer's disease (AD) continuum have been observed, more needs to be known regarding the longitudinal trajectories of participant- vs. study partner-reported concerns, particularly their relationship to AD biomarkers and mood symptomology. Additionally, it is unclear whether years of in-clinic data collection are needed to observe relationships with AD biomarkers, or whether more frequent, remote assessments over shorter periods of time would suffice. This study primarily sought to examine the relationships between longitudinal trajectories of participant- and study partner-rated cognitive decline and baseline biomarker levels [i.e., amyloid and tau positron emission tomography (PET)], in addition to how mood symptomatology may alter these trajectories of concerns over a 2-year period. Baseline mood was associated with longitudinal participant-rated concerns, such that participants with elevated depression and anxiety scores at baseline had decreasing concerns about cognitive decline over time (fixed estimate = -0.17, 95% CI [-0.29 to -0.05], t = -2.75, df = 457, adj. p = 0.012). A significant interaction between baseline amyloid (fixed estimate = 4.07, 95% CI [1.13-7.01], t = 2.72, df = 353, adj. p = 0.026) and tau (fixed estimate = 3.50, 95% CI [0.95-6.06], t = 2.70, df = 331, adj. p = 0.030) levels was associated with increasing study partner concerns, but not participant concerns, over time. The interaction between amyloid and study partner concerns remained significant when utilizing only the first year of concern-related data collection. Overall, these results suggest that frequent, remote assessment of study partner-reported concerns may offer additional insight into the AD clinical spectrum, as study partners appear to more accurately update their concerns over time with regard to pathology, with these concerns less influenced by participants' mood symptomatology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine E. Munro
- Center for Brain/Mind Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Rachel Buckley
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Center for Alzheimer’s Research and Treatment, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, Florey Institute, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Patrizia Vannini
- Center for Brain/Mind Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Carla DeMuro
- Department of Patient-Centered Outcomes Assessment, RTI Health Solutions, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
| | - Reisa Sperling
- Center for Alzheimer’s Research and Treatment, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Dorene M. Rentz
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Center for Alzheimer’s Research and Treatment, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Keith Johnson
- Center for Alzheimer’s Research and Treatment, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jennifer R. Gatchel
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, United States
| | - Rebecca Amariglio
- Center for Brain/Mind Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
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Gromisch ES, DeLuca J, Benedict RH, Foley FW. Managing Cognitive Dysfunction in Multiple Sclerosis: A Snapshot of Changes in Screening, Assessment, and Treatment Practices. Int J MS Care 2021; 24:104-109. [DOI: 10.7224/1537-2073.2020-139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Background: Cognitive dysfunction is prevalent in multiple sclerosis (MS) and can have a negative effect on several aspects of the daily lives of persons with MS. In 2010, members of the Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centers (CMSC) were surveyed to understand MS clinicians’ screening, assessment, and treatment practices for cognitive problems. Given the advancements made in the field in the past decade, it was deemed time to reevaluate how cognitive dysfunction is managed in the clinical setting.
Methods: An online questionnaire was completed by 56 CMSC members in which they were asked to describe their clinical practices, procedures for screening and further evaluation, and treatment recommendations for cognitive dysfunction. Participants were also asked whether their practice had changed in terms of the number of cognitive screenings, prescriptions for cognitive problems, and referrals for neuropsychological assessment and cognitive remediation in the past 5 years to allow for clinicians who had not been in practice for 10 years.
Results: Participants reported an increase in the number of cognitive screenings and referrals for neuropsychological assessments and cognitive remediation during the past 5 years. Compared with 2010, participants endorsed greater use of person-administered screening measures, such as the Symbol Digit Modalities Test, and fewer prescriptions for medications to improve cognitive functioning.
Conclusions: Clinical practices are becoming more in line with the literature, with increased use of cognitive screening and remediation. Continued attention to cognitive problems will be an ongoing important component of MS-related care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth S. Gromisch
- From the Mandell Center for Multiple Sclerosis, Mount Sinai Rehabilitation Hospital, Trinity Health Of New England, Hartford, CT, USA (ESG); Department of Neurology, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA (ESG); Departments of Rehabilitative Medicine and Medical Sciences, Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine at Quinnipiac University, North Haven, CT, USA (ESG); Kessler
| | - John DeLuca
- From the Mandell Center for Multiple Sclerosis, Mount Sinai Rehabilitation Hospital, Trinity Health Of New England, Hartford, CT, USA (ESG); Department of Neurology, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA (ESG); Departments of Rehabilitative Medicine and Medical Sciences, Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine at Quinnipiac University, North Haven, CT, USA (ESG); Kessler
| | - Ralph H.B. Benedict
- From the Mandell Center for Multiple Sclerosis, Mount Sinai Rehabilitation Hospital, Trinity Health Of New England, Hartford, CT, USA (ESG); Department of Neurology, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA (ESG); Departments of Rehabilitative Medicine and Medical Sciences, Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine at Quinnipiac University, North Haven, CT, USA (ESG); Kessler
| | - Frederick W. Foley
- From the Mandell Center for Multiple Sclerosis, Mount Sinai Rehabilitation Hospital, Trinity Health Of New England, Hartford, CT, USA (ESG); Department of Neurology, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA (ESG); Departments of Rehabilitative Medicine and Medical Sciences, Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine at Quinnipiac University, North Haven, CT, USA (ESG); Kessler
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Özkeskin M, Özden F, Ekmekçi Ö, Yüceyar N. The reliability and validity of the Turkish version of the Telemedicine Satisfaction and Usefulness Questionnaire (TSUQ) and Telemedicine Patient Questionnaire (TPQ) in individuals with multiple sclerosis. Neurol Sci 2021; 43:1921-1927. [PMID: 34342782 PMCID: PMC8328809 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-021-05519-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Objective The study was aimed to translate and adapt the Telemedicine Satisfaction and Usefulness Questionnaire (TSUQ) and Telemedicine Patient Questionnaire (TPQ) into Turkish, thereafter to analyze the psychometric properties of both questionnaires. Methods A total of 149 multiple sclerosis (MS) patients were recruited in the study. For 4 years, all patients were supervised by a department clinician using telemedicine. Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was used to assess internal consistency. By evaluating the scores of 41 retested patients 1 week later, the test-retest reliability was determined using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Pearson’s correlation coefficient was used to assess the construct validity (r). Results A total of 149 patients (103 women, 46 men) with a mean age of 40.9±10.9 years were included in the study. MS duration of the patients was 9.15±6.24 years. Internal consistency of all items and the total score of the TSUQ were excellent (>0.80; ranged 0.971–0.974). On the other hand, the internal consistency of all items and total score of the TPQ was excellent, either (>0.80; ranged 0.878–0.890). The ICC of the TSUQ’s and TPQ’s total score was excellent (>0.80). The correlation between TSUQ and TPQ was strong (r=0.734, p<0.01). In addition, there was moderate relationship between the TSUQ and the Beck Depression Scale (BDS) (r=−0.363, p<0.01). On the other hand, there was low correlation between TPQ and BDS (r=−0.217, p<0.05). Conclusion The Turkish version of the TSUQ and the TPQ is valid and reliable in individuals with MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehmet Özkeskin
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Ege University, İzmir, Turkey
| | - Fatih Özden
- Köyceğiz Vocational School of Health Services, Department of Elderly Care, Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University, 48800, Köyceğiz, Muğla, Turkey.
| | - Özgül Ekmekçi
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Ege University, İzmir, Turkey
| | - Nur Yüceyar
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Ege University, İzmir, Turkey
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Abdel Hafeez MA, Zamzam DA, Swelam MS, Steit AA, Masoud J, Nasser AA, Hazzou A, Hamid E, Aref H, Zakaria MF, Fouad MM. Telephone-based assessment of multiple sclerosis patients at Ain Shams University Hospital in the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. THE EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF NEUROLOGY, PSYCHIATRY AND NEUROSURGERY 2021; 57:66. [PMID: 34093002 PMCID: PMC8164886 DOI: 10.1186/s41983-021-00316-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Assessment of multiple sclerosis (MS) patients during the era of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic was confronted with the overwhelmed healthcare facilities in Egypt and fear of the patients to get infected while attending the follow-up visits. This study aimed to assess the value of telephone-based assessments in the follow-up of MS patients. It includes one hundred and five patients who participated in the study and completed 3 telephone-based assessments which are the Hauser Ambulation index, Multiple Sclerosis Neuropsychology Questionnaire (MSNQ), and Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis Scale (SMSS). Results The Hauser Ambulation index was significantly correlated with the latest Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score done within 1 month from the telephone call (r=0.738, P<0.001). The analysis of MSNQ scores showed that one-third of the study population had evidence of cognitive and/or neuropsychological impairment. Post hoc analysis regarding the cognitive and psychological impairment component of SMSS revealed that the patients who answered “Never” had significantly lower MSNQ scores compared to those who answered “Sometimes” (P=0.016), “Often” (P=0.022), and “Always” (P=0.001). The comparison of the EDSS scores of the patients regarding the sensory-motor impairment component of SMSS showed a non-significant difference. Conclusion The Hauser Ambulation index may be a reliable telephone-based tool for the assessment of physical disability. The MSNQ and the cognitive and psychological impairment component of SMSS can be used for the assessment of cognitive and psychological impairment among patients with MS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dina A Zamzam
- Neurology Department, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - Alaa Abo Steit
- Neurology Department, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Janet Masoud
- Neurology Department, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - Ahmed Hazzou
- Neurology Department, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Eman Hamid
- Neurology Department, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Hany Aref
- Neurology Department, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Magd F Zakaria
- Neurology Department, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
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11
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Domingues RB, Mantese CE, Aquino EDS, Fantini FGMM, Prado GFD, Nitrini R. Telemedicine in neurology: current evidence. ARQUIVOS DE NEURO-PSIQUIATRIA 2020; 78:818-826. [PMID: 33295422 DOI: 10.1590/0004-282x20200131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Telemedicine was first introduced in Neurology as a tool to facilitate access to acute stroke treatment. More recently, evidence has emerged of the use of telemedicine in several other areas of Neurology. With the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic and the need for social isolation, Brazilian authorities have expanded the regulation of the use of telemedicine, thus allowing the treatment of many patients with neurological diseases to be conducted with less risk of SARS-CoV-2 contamination. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to critically review the current evidence of the use, efficacy, safety, and usefulness of telemedicine in Neurology. METHODS A review of PubMed indexed articles was carried out by searching for the terms "telemedicine AND": "headache", "multiple sclerosis", "vestibular disorders", "cerebrovascular diseases", "epilepsy", "neuromuscular diseases", "dementia", and "movement disorders". The more relevant studies in each of these areas were critically analyzed. RESULTS Several articles were found and analyzed in each of these areas of Neurology. The main described contributions of telemedicine in the diagnosis and treatment of such neurological conditions were presented, indicating a great potential of use of this type of assistance in all these fields. CONCLUSION Current evidence supports that teleneurology can be a tool to increase care for patients suffering from neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renan Barros Domingues
- Comissão Aberta de Telemedicina, Academia Brasileira de Neurologia, São Paulo SP, Brazil.,Santa Casa de Misericórdia de São Paulo, Departamento de Neurologia, São Paulo SP, Brazil
| | - Carlos Eduardo Mantese
- Comissão Aberta de Telemedicina, Academia Brasileira de Neurologia, São Paulo SP, Brazil.,Hospital Sírio Libanês, Telemedicina, São Paulo SP, Brazil.,Hospital Mãe de Deus, Porto Alegre RS, Brazil
| | - Emanuelle da Silva Aquino
- Comissão Aberta de Telemedicina, Academia Brasileira de Neurologia, São Paulo SP, Brazil.,Hospital Sírio Libanês, Telemedicina, São Paulo SP, Brazil.,Universidade de São Paulo, Departamento de Neurologia, São Paulo SP, Brazil
| | | | - Gilmar Fernandes do Prado
- Diretoria Executiva, Academia Brasileira de Neurologia, São Paulo SP, Brazil.,Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Departamento de Neurologia, São Paulo SP, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Nitrini
- Universidade de São Paulo, Departamento de Neurologia, São Paulo SP, Brazil.,Diretoria Científica, Academia Brasileira de Neurologia, São Paulo SP, Brazil
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12
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Carlew AR, Fatima H, Livingstone JR, Reese C, Lacritz L, Pendergrass C, Bailey KC, Presley C, Mokhtari B, Cullum CM. Cognitive Assessment via Telephone: A Scoping Review of Instruments. Arch Clin Neuropsychol 2020; 35:1215-1233. [PMID: 33106856 PMCID: PMC7665291 DOI: 10.1093/arclin/acaa096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Telephone-based cognitive assessment (TBCA) has long been studied but less widely adopted in routine neuropsychological practice. Increased interest in remote neuropsychological assessment techniques in the face of the coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic warrants an updated review of relevant remote assessment literature. While recent reviews of videoconference-based neuropsychological applications have been published, no updated compilation of empirical TBCA research has been completed. Therefore, this scoping review offers relevant empirical research to inform clinical decision-making specific to teleneuropsychology. METHOD Peer-reviewed studies addressing TBCA were included. Broad search terms were related to telephone, cognitive, or neuropsychological assessment and screening. After systematic searching of the PubMed and EBSCO databases, 139 relevant articles were retained. RESULTS In total, 17 unique cognitive screening measures, 20 cognitive batteries, and 6 single-task measures were identified as being developed or adapted specifically for telephone administration. Tables summarizing the identified cognitive assessments, information on diagnostic accuracy, and comparisons to face-to-face cognitive assessment are included in supplementary materials. CONCLUSIONS Overall, literature suggests that TBCA is a viable modality for identifying cognitive impairment in various populations. However, the mode of assessment selected clinically should reflect an understanding of the purpose, evidence, and limitations for various tests and populations. Most identified measures were developed for research application to support gross cognitive characterization and to help determine when more comprehensive testing was needed. While TBCA is not meant to replace gold-standard, face-to-face evaluation, if appropriately utilized, it can expand scope of practice, particularly when barriers to standard neuropsychological assessment occur.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne R Carlew
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75235, USA
| | - Hudaisa Fatima
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75235, USA
| | - Julia R Livingstone
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75235, USA
| | - Caitlin Reese
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75235, USA
| | - Laura Lacritz
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75235, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75235, USA
| | - Cody Pendergrass
- Mental Health Department, VA North Texas Health Care System, Dallas, TX 75216, USA
| | - Kenneth Chase Bailey
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75235, USA
| | - Chase Presley
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75235, USA
| | - Ben Mokhtari
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75235, USA
| | - Colin Munro Cullum
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75235, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75235, USA
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75235, USA
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13
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Yeroushalmi S, Maloni H, Costello K, Wallin MT. Telemedicine and multiple sclerosis: A comprehensive literature review. J Telemed Telecare 2019; 26:400-413. [PMID: 31042118 DOI: 10.1177/1357633x19840097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Patients with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) face barriers accessing specialty care for evaluation and treatment. Telemedicine, the practice of clinical care at a distance with the aid of technology, may be a potential bridge to close the access gap for pwMS separated by distance or disability. The objective of this review was to investigate the types of telemedicine being utilized and overall outcomes for pwMS and their providers. METHODS A Boolean search of the medical literature was conducted between January 2000 and January 31, 2018. PubMed, EMBASE, PsycINFO and the Cochrane databases, were used to identify all relevant citations. Two reviewers independently appraised the articles for meeting study criteria and for study quality using the CASP system. Financial costs of the telemedicine applications were assessed. RESULTS A total of 28 studies involving 3252 participants met criteria for inclusion. Telemedicine interventions were classified, and outcomes were assessed systematically by the following categories: general MS care; rehabilitation and exercise; and neuropsychology/mental health. Studies showed a range of outcomes with variable quality. Overall, remote clinical examinations, long-term telemedicine management interventions and telerehabilitation were shown to be beneficial, cost-effective and satisfactory for patients and providers. DISCUSSION Telemedicine is a viable platform for delivering specialty MS care. Remote neurological assessments and several forms of therapy have been shown to be technically feasible. Optimal implementation and barriers to the use of telemedicine in the current healthcare system should be explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Yeroushalmi
- Department of Veterans Affairs Multiple Sclerosis Center of Excellence-East, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Heidi Maloni
- Department of Veterans Affairs Multiple Sclerosis Center of Excellence-East, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Mitchell T Wallin
- Neurology Department, Johns Hopkins University, USA.,Neurology Department, George Washington University School of Medicine, USA
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Abstract
Accumulating neurological disability has a substantial impact on the lives of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). As well as the established Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), several other outcome measures are now available for assessing disability progression in MS. This review extends the findings of a previous analysis of relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) trials published up to 2012, to determine whether there has been a shift in outcome measures used to assess disability in phase III clinical trials in RRMS and progressive MS. Forty relevant trials were identified (RRMS, n = 16; progressive MS, n = 18; other/mixed phenotypes, n = 6). Sustained EDSS worsening, particularly over 3 months, was included as an endpoint in almost all identified trials. Other disability-related endpoints included the Multiple Sclerosis Functional Composite z-score and scores for the physical component summary of the Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale and Medical Outcomes Study Short-Form (36-item) Health Survey. Tests assessing manual dexterity, ambulation, vision and cognition were also employed, and in some trials, composite endpoints were used. However, there was no obvious trend in choice of disability outcome measures over time. Sustained EDSS worsening over short time periods continues to be the most widely used measure of disability progression in pivotal MS trials, despite its well-recognised limitations. A new tool set is needed for use in MS clinical trials that detects the benefit of potential treatments that slow (or reverse) progressive disability.
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Barcellos LF, Bellesis KH, Shen L, Shao X, Chinn T, Frndak S, Drake A, Bakshi N, Marcus J, Schaefer C, Benedict RH. Remote assessment of verbal memory in MS patients using the California Verbal Learning Test. Mult Scler 2017; 24:354-357. [PMID: 28273777 DOI: 10.1177/1352458517694087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
We used the California Verbal Learning Test, Second Edition (CVLT-II), one component of the Brief International Cognitive Assessment for Multiple Sclerosis (BICAMS), to determine feasibility of a remote assessment protocol. We compared telephone-administered CVLT-II data from MS patients to data acquired in person from an independent sample of patients and healthy controls. Mixed factor analyses of variance (ANOVAs) showed no significant differences between patient groups, but between-group effects comparing patients and healthy controls were significant. In this study, CVLT-II assessment by conventional in-person and remote telephone assessment yielded indistinguishable results. The findings indicate that telephone-administered CVLT-II is feasible. Further validation studies are underway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa F Barcellos
- Genetic Epidemiology and Genomics Laboratory, Division of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA/Kaiser Permanente Division of Research, Oakland, CA, USA
| | | | - Ling Shen
- Kaiser Permanente Division of Research, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Xiaorong Shao
- Genetic Epidemiology and Genomics Laboratory, Division of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Terrence Chinn
- Kaiser Permanente Division of Research, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Seth Frndak
- Department of Neurology, University of Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Allison Drake
- Department of Neurology, University of Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Nandini Bakshi
- Kaiser Permanente-Permanente Medical Group, Walnut Creek, CA, USA
| | - Jackie Marcus
- Kaiser Permanente-Permanente Medical Group, San Francisco, CA, USA
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