screening methods in assessment of cognitive functions for neurosyphilis early diagnostics

The aim of the study: To examine the sensitivity of mini-mental state examination (MMSE) and clock drawing test (CDT) in screening of cognitive function in patients with syphilis. Materials and methods A total of 1387 patients with different forms of documented neurosyphilis were examined to study the deficiency of neurological function. The diagnosis of neurosyphilis was confirmed by CSF-study. In 75 cases cognitive function was studied by MMSE and clock drawing test. Results: MMSE and clock drawing test showed cognitive dysfunction in 76,4% of patients with syphilis. The sensitivity of both tests was rather equal. Such tests could be made in a short time and are simple in understanding. Thus these tests could help in the everyday practice of dermatologists and neurologists as screening methods of cognitive dysfunction in patients with syphilis. Conclusion: The results of screening tests in patients with significant cognitive dysfunction could be used in the early diagnostics and corresponding treatment of neurosyphilis