The Frontal Assessment Battery (FAB): normative values in an Italian population sample

The Frontal Assessment Battery (FAB) is a short cognitive and behavioural six-subtest battery for the bedside screening of a global executive dysfunction; although recently devised, it is already extensively used thanks to its ease of administration and claimed sensitivity. The aim of the present study was to derive Italian normative values from a sample of 364 control subjects (215 women and 149 men) of different ages (mean: 57.4±17.9 years; range: 20-94 years) and educational level (mean: 10.4±4.3 years.; range: 1-17 years); the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) was concurrently administered. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed significant effects for age and education whereas gender was not significant; thus, from the derived linear equation, a correction grid for FAB raw scores was built. Based on nonparametric techniques, inferential cut-off scores were subsequently determined and equivalent scores (ES) computed. Test-restest and interrater reliabilities were both satisfactory. Interestingly, MMSE was significantly correlated with FAB raw scores, whereas adjusted scores were not. The present data may improve the accuracy in the use of the FAB both for clinical and research purposes.