Abstract
Neurocognitive assessment plays a central role in the diagnosis of human immunodeficiency
virus- (HIV) associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND). The history of diagnostic
categories and labeling of HIV-related neurological disorders is briefly presented.
The current diagnostic nomenclature of HAND and the role of neurocognitive assessment
is examined. Though neurocognitive testing is sensitive in assessing a broad range
of cognitive impairments, neurocognitive testing is not specific to HAND without consideration
of the impact on functional status, as well as confounding factors, including premorbid
status.
Keywords
human immunodeficiency virus - HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder - neuropsychological
- HIV-associated dementia