Misleading conclusions about word memory test results in multiple sclerosis (MS) by Loring and Goldstein (2019)

Abstract

Loring and Goldstein presented a case of a woman with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) who failed the traditional performance validity criteria of the WMT. Scoring lower than the mean from patients with Alzheimer’s Disease on extremely easy subtests, the patient carried on to produce a WMT profile which is typical of someone with invalid test results, based on the usual interpretation, which is standardized within the Advanced Interpretation Program. Statements were made that are incorrect, including the claim there are no available data on the WMT in MS patients, that the minor tranquilizer Lorazepam can explain WMT failure even in healthy adults and that this patient produced a neuropsychological profile that is credible and typical of MS. We report data from MS patients given comprehensive neuropsychological assessment, including the WMT. Loring and Goldstein’s interpretation of this case does not fit the facts.