International Journal of Alzheimer's Disease (Jan 2012)

Executive Dysfunction in MCI: Subtype or Early Symptom

  • Ivar Reinvang,
  • Ramune Grambaite,
  • Thomas Espeseth

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1155/2012/936272
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 2012

Abstract

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Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) may take several forms, and amnestic MCI (aMCI) has been recognized as an early stage of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). Impairment in executive functions including attention (eMCI) may be indicative of several neurodegenerative conditions. Executive impairment is frequently found in aMCI, it is significant for prognosis, and patients with eMCI may go on to develop AD. Recent studies have found changes in white matter integrity in patients with eMCI to be more sensitive than measures of cortical atrophy. Studies of genetic high-risk groups using sensitive cognitive neuroscience paradigms indicate that changes in executive function may be a cognitive marker useful for tracking development in an AD pathophysiological process.