Comprehensive Clinical and Behavioral Characteristics of Mild Cognitive Impairment According to Amyloid Positivity: A

Seung Ae Kim1,2, Yeshin Kim3, Duk L Na4,5

  • 1Department of Neurology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.

Abstract

Insights

Amyloid beta-positive (Aβ+) mild cognitive impairment (MCI) differs from Aβ-negative (Aβ-) MCI. Aβ+ MCI shows worse cognition, while Aβ- MCI presents with more vascular risks and sleep issues.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Gerontology
  • Biomarkers

Background:

  • Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a precursor to dementia, with Alzheimer's disease often linked to amyloid beta (Aβ) plaques.
  • Amyloid beta-positive (Aβ+) MCI is well-studied, but the characteristics of amyloid beta-negative (Aβ-) MCI remain less understood.
  • Understanding MCI heterogeneity is crucial for accurate diagnosis and targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare the clinical and behavioral profiles of Aβ+ MCI and Aβ- MCI.
  • To identify factors contributing to cognitive impairment in different MCI subtypes.
  • To elucidate the heterogeneity of MCI in a large, multi-center cohort.

Main Methods:

  • Included 686 participants with MCI.
  • Determined Aβ positivity using positron emission tomography (PET) imaging with a Centiloid cutoff of 25.5.
  • Collected comprehensive data on vascular risk factors, cognition, daily function, neuropsychiatric symptoms, and lifestyle behaviors.

Main Results:

  • Aβ+ MCI participants (n=406) were older, more often female, and ApoE4 carriers, with poorer cognition and function.
  • Aβ- MCI participants (n=280) had higher vascular risk factors (diabetes, obesity, inflammation) and reported better social engagement but worse sleep quality.
  • Distinct clinical and behavioral profiles were observed between Aβ+ and Aβ- MCI groups.

Conclusions:

  • This study reveals significant differences between Aβ+ and Aβ- MCI.
  • The findings underscore the heterogeneity of MCI and its underlying causes.
  • These insights are vital for understanding cognitive decline and developing personalized treatments.

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