Use of Neuropsychological Test Battery for the Diagnosis of HIV-Associated Neurocognitive Disorders in Japan

Objective : There is no exact data reporting prevalence of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) in Japan. In order to clarify the current status of HAND in Japan, we investigated the tests used to establish the diagnosis of HAND. Method : We conducted a questionnaire survey to 12 major hospital registered for HIV treatment in Japan as of November 2013. Results : The survey revealed no neuropsychological test battery used universally across Japan. Only three hospitals examined five or more domains of cognitive functions, while seven hospitals used neuropsychological tests without standardized score that could be used for assessment of severity of HAND, or making neuropsychological evaluation difficult. Conclusions : The results of the survey did not allow accurate estimation of the prevalence of HAND in Japan. Establishment of a standardized battery of neuropsychological tests for accurate diagnosis of HAND is indispensable for future epidemiological studies.