Neurocognitive assessment in the diagnosis of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders.

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. Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.