Lateralizing value of memory recognition index difference scores (RIDS) in patients with right versus left temporal lobe epilepsy

Introduction The lateralizing value of neuropsychological data remains an important topic. However, no research has examined the utility of Wechsler Memory Scale – Fourth Edition (WMS-IV) recognition memory composites and difference scores between these to assess their accuracy in differentiating patients with right temporal lobe epilepsy (RTLE) from left temporal lobe epilepsy (LTLE).Methods This observational study analyzed archival data among 41 presurgical patients with TLE to examine the predictive utility of memory recognition indices and the difference score between these composites derived from the WMS-IV in differentiating seizure laterality. Independent t-tests, chi-square, logistic regression, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses were conducted.Results 23 LTLE patients (mean age = 36.48 years, SD = 10.15) and 18 RTLE patients (mean age = 42.78 years, SD = 13.22) were selected after being diagnosed based on concordant semiology, long-term video EEG monitoring, and neuroimaging. WMS-IV recognition index difference scores (RIDS) were significantly higher in RTLE than LTLE (p = .006, d = −.909). The WMS-IV RIDS was a significant predictor of seizure laterality after controlling for sex and yielded adequate accuracy in differentiating right and left TLE cases (AUC = .742).Conclusions The current findings support the utility and adequate accuracy of the WMS-IV RIDS in improving neuropsychological lateralization in patients with TLE.