Neuropsychological findings in a sample of Operation Desert Storm veterans

Abstract

In response to ongoing complaints of memory, attention, and problem-solving difficulties among veterans of Operation Desert Storm and Shield (ODSS), a sample of 44 male veterans of ODSS underwent a comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation. Deficits relative to normative data were observed only on finger dexterity (Grooved Pegboard, bilaterally) and the Stroop Color and Word Test. Those with impaired Pegboard performance had lower performance on other tasks requiring psychomotor speed. Those with impaired Stroop had significantly lower motor and set-shifting performance. Scores of both impaired groups were higher on many clinical and supplemental scales of the MMPI. Despite subjective cognitive complaints reported in 39% of the overall sample, veterans with cognitive complaints differed from their peers primarily in greater psychological distress as depicted on the MMPI. The data are presented as preliminary clinical findings.