The utility of computerized neuropsychological assessment of cognitive dysfunction in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis.

Traditional paper-and-pencil neuropsychological batteries used to document cognitive deficits in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients lack timing precision. This makes it difficult to accurately measure psychomotor slowing, a central cognitive symptom of MS. Additionally, traditional batteries lack multiple alternate forms necessary to control for practice effects when assessing cognition over time. Finally such batteries are lengthy and expensive. Computerized neuropsychological batteries address many of these shortcomings. They measure response time more precisely, require less administration time, include alternate forms, and are ideal for rapid screening/triage. Although there are normative data on the reliability and validity of computerized measures, there have been no controlled validation studies with MS patients. The current study was designed to validate a computerized neuropsychological battery (ANAM) for use with relapsing-remitting (RR) MS patients. Prior to initiation of interferon-beta-1a (Avonex) treatment, subjects participated in a neuropsychological evaluation consisting of traditional and computerized measures. Moderate-to-high correlations were found between computerized and traditional measures. Computerized tests accurately predicted performance on key traditional tests. The battery was also concordant with traditional measures in identifying RR MS patients with and without neurocognitive impairment. Findings are discussed with respect to increased accuracy and accessibility of neuropsychological evaluations for MS patients.

Impact of sedating antihistamines on safety and productivity.

The use of sedating antihistamines by allergy sufferers remains common, and physicians continue to prescribe these older antihistamines with great frequency. Precautionary statements warning of possible drowsiness and the need for caution when driving or operating machinery, which are required for sedating antihistamines, don't appear to be having much impact. Sedating antihistamines are frequently found to be a causal factor in fatal traffic accidents and are the leading medication found on autopsy of pilots who have crashed their aircraft. Patients taking sedating antihistamines frequently don't feel sleepy, yet they have difficulty staying awake and their brain functioning is impaired. The impact on safety is found in the increased risk of traumatic work-related injuries, driving accidents, and aviation fatalities. The cognitive and psychomotor deficits translate into losses in worker productivity and student learning.