title: The NAB shape learning subtest as a predictor of lateralized seizure onset.
abstract: This study presents the first empirical evaluation of the predictive value of the Neuropsychological Assessment Battery Shape Learning (NAB-SL) subtest in a sample of patients with unilateral temporal lobe epilepsy. Stimulus characteristics of the NAB-SL may improve predictive ability over other commonly used visual memory tests. Forty-nine patients with unilateral temporal lobe epilepsy were compared on measures of non-verbal and verbal memory (NAB-SL and Wechsler Memory Scale-III subtests). Univariate and forward conditional logistic regressions identified predictive values for each memory test individually and in combination. The NAB-SL delayed memory demonstrated consistently stronger predictive power over visual reproduction at the univariate and multivariate levels. The NAB-SL was a good predictor (80% range) of lateralized seizure onset when combined with a verbal memory measure. These preliminary results provide support for the use of the NAB-SL in preoperative epilepsy evaluations as a predictor of non-dominant temporal lobe dysfunction. Potential benefits of this test are discussed.
authors.affiliation: Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, USA. stwhill0@gmail.com
authors.forename: Stacy W
authors.initials: SW
authors.lastname: Hill
authors.forename: Adriana M
authors.initials: AM
authors.lastname: Strutt
authors.forename: Lori
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Uber-Zak
authors.forename: Travis G
authors.initials: TG
authors.lastname: Fogel
authors.forename: Michael T
authors.initials: MT
authors.lastname: Ropacki
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001245:Association Learning / Q000502:physiology*; D004569:Electroencephalography; D004833:Epilepsy, Temporal Lobe / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000523:psychology; D005260:Female; D007839:Functional Laterality; D006801:Humans; D008137:Longitudinal Studies; D008297:Male; D008568:Memory / Q000502:physiology*; D008875:Middle Aged; D009483:Neuropsychological Tests; D010775:Photic Stimulation; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D014706:Verbal Learning; D014741:Video Recording; D055815:Young Adult