An ecological measure to screen executive functioning in MS: the Picture Interpretation Test (PIT) 360°

Abstract Executive functions are crucial for performance of everyday activities. In Multiple Sclerosis (MS), executive dysfunctions can be apparent from the early onset of the disease. Technology-based time-efficient and resource-saving tools for early evaluation of executive functions using an ecol...

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Main Authors: Olivia Realdon, Silvia Serino, Federica Savazzi, Federica Rossetto, Pietro Cipresso, Thomas D. Parsons, Giacomo Cappellini, Fabrizia Mantovani, Laura Mendozzi, Raffaello Nemni, Giuseppe Riva, Francesca Baglio
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Nature Publishing Group 2019-04-01
Series:Scientific Reports
Online Access:https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-019-42201-1
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Summary:Abstract Executive functions are crucial for performance of everyday activities. In Multiple Sclerosis (MS), executive dysfunctions can be apparent from the early onset of the disease. Technology-based time-efficient and resource-saving tools for early evaluation of executive functions using an ecological approach are needed to assess functional performance in real-life. The aim was to compare the efficiency of the Picture Interpretation Test 360° (PIT 360°) with traditional measures on executive dysfunction in Persons with Multiple Sclerosis (PwMS) and Healthy Controls (HC). Participants were 31 patients with Relapsing-Remitting MS (mean age = 44.323 ± 13.149; mean Expanded Disability Status Scale = 2) and 39 HC (mean age = 39.538 ± 15.728). All were tested with standard neuropsychological tests of executive functions, PIT 360°, and measures of user experience. While standard neuropsychological tests failed to differentiate between PwMS and HC group, the PIT 360° was successful in detecting executive dysfunction in PwMS. All participants reported the PIT 360° to be an engaging tool and endorsed positive reactions to their experience. Overall, the PIT 360° is a quick, sensitive, and ecological tool that captures real-world executive dysfunction in PwMS. This engaging measure is sensitive for the detection of executive deficits since the early phases of the disease.
ISSN:2045-2322