Do classical and computerized cognitive tests have equal intrarater reliability in myotonic dystrophy type 1?

•The Ruff 2 & 7 and Stroop Color-Word tests are two reliable paper-pencil measures.•The Multitasking test shows the best reliability of the selected CANTAB tests.•Paper-pencil tests are more reliable than computerized tests (CANTAB) in DM1.•The lack of variability in many tests resulted in lower reliability. Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) is a multisystemic inherited neuromuscular disease leading to central nervous system symptoms, including cognitive impairments, among multiple other symptoms. However, information is presently lacking regarding the psychometric properties of neuropsychological tests and promising computerized cognitive tests, such as the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTABⓇ). This type of information is critical to improve clinical trial readiness and provide knowledge of DM1 natural history. The aims of the present study were (1) to document the intrarater reliability of classic paper-pencil tests assessing visuospatial working memory, cognitive flexibility, attention, episodic memory and apathy, and (2) to compare these findings with their equivalent computerized automated tests from the CANTABⓇ. Thirty participants were seen twice at four-week intervals. Results showed that the Stroop Color and Word Test (ICC = 0.741–0.869) and the Ruff 2 & 7 (ICC = 0.703–0.871) appear to be reliable paper-and-pencil tests in the DM1 population. For the CANTABⓇ, a similar observation was made for the Multitasking test (ICC = 0.588–0.792). Further studies should explore the applicability and concurrent validity of the CANTAB® and classic neuropsychological assessments in additional cohorts of DM1 patients.