Conversion of mild cognitive impairment patients in Alzheimer's disease: prognostic value of Alpha3/Alpha2 electroencephalographic rhythms power ratio. Issue 1 (December 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Moretti, D.
• Is Part Of: Alzheimer's research & therapy. Volume 7:Issue 1(2015)
• Page Start: 1
• Page End: 14
• Publication Date: 2015-12
• Subjects: Alzheimer's disease -- Periodicals; 616.831005
• DOI: 10.1186/s13195-015-0162-x
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1758-9193

Abstract

Abstract Introduction The increase in electroencephalogram (EEG) alpha3/alpha2 frequency power ratio has been demonstrated as a biomarker characteristic of subjects with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) who will develop Alzheimer's disease (AD). Methods Seventy-four adult subjects with MCI underwent clinical and neuropsychological evaluation, EEG recording, and high-resolution 3D magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This group has been evaluated after a three years follow-up. Twenty-seven of these subjects underwent perfusion single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) evaluation also. Increasing alpha3/alpha2 power ratio, was computed for each subject. Differences in EEG markers, cortical thickness, brain perfusion among the groups were estimated. Results In the higher alpha3/alpha2 frequency power ratio group, greater memory impairment was correlated with greater cortical atrophy and lower perfusional rate in the temporo-parietal cortex. After a follow-up of three years, these patients converted in AD. Conclusion High EEG upper/low alpha power ratio was associated with cortical thinning and lower perfusion in the temporo-parietal lobe. Moreover, atrophy and lower perfusion rate were both significantly correlated with memory impairment in MCI subjects. The increase of EEG upper/low alpha frequency power ratio could be useful for identifying individuals at risk for progression to AD dementia and may be of value in the clinical context.