Table 2 Neuropsychological tests, domains, functions and source of normal data.
Cognitive domain | Neuropsychological test | Task and function | Specific variables analysed | References |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Executive functions | Continuous performance test (CPT) II | Computerized target response task. Involves several aspects of sustained and selective attention, executive control, and reaction time | Omissions (failure to respond to target); commissions (response to non-target); reaction time (hit RT—average speed of correct responses) | |
Letter-number-sequencing | Recall a series of numbers in increasing order and letters in alphabetical order. Involves working memory, attention, executive control | Sum of correct responses | ||
Trailmaking test B | Timed sequencing task, alternating letters and numbers. Visual scanning, psychomotor speed, cognitive flexibility | Time in seconds | ||
Learning and memory | California verbal learning test (CVLT) | Word list learning (trial 1–5) and recall. Involves verbal episodic learning and memory | Total learning (sum of correct responses in trial 1–5); immediate recall; delayed recall | |
Brief visuospatial memory test revised (BVMT-R) | Timed spatial figure learning (trial 1–3) and recall. Involves spatial episodic learning and memory | Learning (trial 1–3); delayed recall | ||
Speed and attention | Trailmaking test A | Timed sequencing task, numbers. Visual scanning and psychomotor speed | Time in seconds | |
Symbol digit modalities test | Timed substitution task using a reference key. Involves attention, psychomotor speed, perceptual speed, visual scanning | Sum of correct responses | ||
Continuous performance test (CPT) II | See above | Reaction time (hit RT—average speed of correct responses) | ||
Language | Boston naming test | Picture naming task. Involves confrontational word retrieval | Sum of correct responses | |
Category fluency (animals) | Timed word generation within a semantic category. Involves verbal fluency and executive control | Sum of correct responses | ||
Visuospatial functions | Block tapping test | Tapping spatially separated blocks in predefined sequences of increasing length. Involves visuospatial working memory | Sum of correct responses | |
Silhouettes (VOSP battery) | Picture task, identifying objects and animals presented as silhouettes. Involves visuospatial perception | Sum of correct responses |
