A 1994 survey by the Research Committee of the American Neuropsychiatric
Association revealed that 58% of respondents employed formal assessment of
cognitive status; the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and
neuropsychological testing were the commonest techniques. Literature review
on common cognitive screening instruments found that the MMSE has
widespread popularity, ease of use, and a large body of research
demonstrating its sensitivity to common neuropsychiatric disorders. The
Committee recommends that clinicians who employ the MMSE 1) use it as a
minimum screening for cognitive dysfunction; 2) employ age- and
education-normative corrections; and 3) supplement it with specific
measures of spatial functions, delayed memory, and executive abilities. The
Modified MMSE and the Neurobehavioral Cognitive Status Examination also
show promise as screening tools.Abstract Teaser