Effect of true memory impairment on a test of memory complaint validity.

The Fifteen-Item Test (FIT) is designed to detect an exaggerated presentation on memory assessment. This study examines the extent to which poor FIT performance might reflect true - as opposed to exaggerated - memory impairment. Subjects were 60 persons with mild to severe memory impairment who were not involved in litigation or disability proceedings. FIT performance was examined in relation to WAIS, WMS, and AVLT variables. The results show the FIT "failure" can result from true memory impairment, but that severe memory impairment is generally required to "fail." Common qualitative errors in this neurologic population are also described. Clinical implications of these findings are discussed, with caution against use of the FIT in isolation to address possible exaggerated presentation.