Neurocognitive assessment plays a central role in the diagnosis of human immunodeficiency virus- (HIV) associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND). The history of diagnostic categories and labeling of HIV-related neurological disorders is briefly presented. The current diagnostic nomenclature of HAND and the role of neurocognitive assessment is examined. Though neurocognitive testing is sensitive in assessing a broad range of cognitive impairments, neurocognitive testing is not specific to HAND without consideration of the impact on functional status, as well as confounding factors, including premorbid status.