Assessment tools accuracy for classification and diagnosis of Primary Progressive Aphasia: A systematic review and meta-analysis protocol.

Abstract

Introduction. Primary Progressive Aphasia (PPA) is a syndrome characterized by progressive decline in language function. There are three main PPA syndromes, each one features different language profiles and neuropathologic substrates. Although there are current clinical diagnostic criteria for PPA categorization, the utility of these requires evaluation(s) by specialized staff and the administration of extensive cognitive batteries. A diagnostic tool for PPA is not currently standardized, though some batteries have been developed and/or validated exclusively for PPA categorization. We aim to describe which cognitive/aphasia diagnostic tool has the best accuracy for PPA diagnosis and categorization.
 Methods and Analysis. MEDLINE (PubMed), EMBASE and Web of Science databases will be searched using adequate search strategies. Studies including original data of possible, probable, and definite PPA cases according to current clinical diagnostic criteria for PPA will be included. Inclusion criteria will be 1) Studies describing data of a cognitive/aphasia clinical battery including at least one test measure (e.g., specificity, positive predictive values, etc.) and 2) PPA diagnosis according to current clinical criteria as the reference standard. Two reviewers will perform the screening and data extraction. Quality assessment will be performed according to the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies-2 (QUADAS-2) guidelines. This systematic review protocol is reported as stated by with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Protocol (PRISMA-P) 2015 statement.
 Dissemination. Findings of this systematic review protocol will be disseminated through a publication in a peer-reviewed journal. Results will be helpful to improve the diagnosis and classification of PPA syndromes.