Background/Aims: The Clock Drawing Test (CDT) assesses cognition focusing on executive function and praxis in contrast to the more language-based Mini-Mental State Exam. The CDT may allow early identification of cognitive decline. Methods: A systematic review of the literature was used to identify studies that had used the CDT to predict future cognitive impairment. Results: Five studies were found with the CDT as a predictor. The data were too disparate for meta-analytic techniques. Conclusion: The CDT may be a useful tool to identify decline before more traditional screening tests; however, further studies are needed as the data are sparse and heterogeneous.

Keywords:
Cognitive decline, early diagnosis, Cognitive tests, Cognitive decline, early detection, Elderly
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© 2008 S. Karger AG, Basel
2008
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