Predicting progression of amnesic MCI: The integration of episodic memory impairment with perfusion SPECT

The Episodic Memory Score (EMS), a global index which integrates results obtained in subtests of the Rey's Verbal Learning Test and the Rey-Osterrieth Figure recall, were taken into account to evaluate defects of long term memory. The study sample consisted of 42 subjects affected by aMCI, who were followed-up during a two-year period. At the final follow-up 15 subjects progressed to AD. The EMS predicted progression from aMCI to dementia with a high level of sensitivity and a lower level of specificity, but the association of neuropsychological (EMS) and SPECT data (hypoperfusion in the Posterior Cingulate Cortex) increased the accuracy in predicting conversion from aMCI to AD. The association of results obtained by aMCI patients on memory tests and perfusion SPECT may improve the accuracy in detecting subjects who will progress to dementia. The use of currently available and low-cost investigations could be advantageous in terms of public health policies.