Researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology have developed an algorithm that can detect impairment in motor function, and potentially diagnose early-onset Parkinson’s disease, based on the way a person types on a keyboard.
The algorithm for analyzing keystrokes was able to distinguish between typing in the middle of the night, when sleep deprivation negatively impacts motor skills, and when fully rested. Although the experiment the researchers conducted focused on the effects of fatigue on motor skills, they wrote in Scientific Reports that it also marks a first step in using keystroke patterns to diagnose conditions impacted by motor function impairment, such as Alzheimer’s.
And preliminary results from a study of 21 Parkinson’s patients and 15 healthy controls found that there were greater variations in the keystrokes of the Parkinson’s group compared to the healthy cohort.
In the study, the researchers weren’t concerned with typing speed, but how long a finger is held down on each key. Their reasoning is that that rate at which one presses down and then releases their finger from a key can indicate the brain’s quickness at controlling muscles.
And the researchers say the algorithm could potentially evaluate people for other diseases that involve motor impairment, such as rheumatoid arthritis.
Analyzing people’s keystrokes as they type on a computer keyboard can reveal a great deal of information about the state of their motor function, according to a new study from MIT.
In a paper appearing in Scientific Reports, the researchers found that their algorithm for analyzing keystrokes could distinguish between typing done in the middle of the night, when sleep deprivation impairs motor skills, and typing performed when fully rested.
While this study focused on the effects of fatigue, it also represents a first step toward using keystroke patterns to diagnose conditions that impair motor function, such as Parkinson’s disease, much earlier than is now possible, the researchers say.
Enjoying our content?
Thanks for visiting Psychiatry Advisor. We hope you’re enjoying the latest clinical news, full-length features, case studies, and more.
You’ve viewed {{metering-count}} of {{metering-total}} articles this month. If you wish to read unlimited content, please log in or register below. Registration is free.
{{login-button}} {{register-button}}
Log in to continue reading this article.
Don’t miss out on today’s top content on Psychiatry Advisor. Register for free and gain unlimited access to:
- Clinical News, with personalized daily picks for you
- Evidence-Based Guidance
- Conference Coverage
- Unique Psychiatry Case Studies
- Full-Length Features
- Drug Monographs
- And More
{{login-button}} {{register-button}}
Want to read more?
Please login or register first to view this content.