A Rodgers evolutionary concept analysis examined 22 articles to clarify cognitive intra-individual variability, or inconsistency in one person's cognitive performance, in adults with HIV. IIV may be sensitive to change beyond some mean scores, but it is not yet a diagnostic test and has no ready clinical cut-off.
Key findings
- Antecedents, attributes and consequences overlapped and could change roles within causal pathways. The authors position IIV as a potentially sensitive cognitive-health indicator, but did not pool effect sizes, sensitivity, specificity or standard thresholds.
Why this matters globally
Within-person variability may reveal changes obscured by average scores and motivate personalised longitudinal designs that account for sleep, mood, medication and other contributors.
Thai researcher contribution
The lead author holds affiliations with Chulabhorn Hospital and the University of Alabama at Birmingham, reflecting Thai participation in an international HIV-neuropsychology network.
Limitations to consider
This is a concept analysis, not an effect-estimating systematic review. The 22 studies may vary in definitions, tests and populations; quality appraisal and meta-analysis were not reported. Diagnostic, prognostic and treatment responsiveness remain uncertain.