Memory Markers In The Continuum Of The Alzheimer’s Clinical Syndrome

BACKGROUND: The individual and complementary value of the Visual Short-Term Memory Binding Test (VSTMBT) and the Free and Cued Selective Reminding Test (FCSRT) as markers to trace the AD continuum was investigated. It was hypothesised that the VSTMBT would be an early indicator while the FCSRT would inform on imminent progression. METHODS: Healthy older adults (n=70) and patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) (n=80) were recruited and followed up between 2012 and 2017. Participants with at least two assessments points entered the study. Using baseline and follow up assessments four groups were defined: Older adults how were healthy (HOA), with very mild cognitive but not functional impairment (eMCI), and with MCI who did and did not convert to dementia (MCI Converters and non-Converters). RESULTS: Only the VSTMBT predicted group membership in the very early stages (HOA vs eMCI). As the disease progressed, the FCSRT became a strong predictor excluding the VSTMB from the models. Their complementary value was high during the mid-prodromal stages and decreased in stages closer to dementia. DISCUSSION: The study support the notion that neuropsychological assessment for AD needs to abandon the notion of one-size-fits-all. A memory toolkit for AD needs to consider tools that are early indicators such as the VSTMBT and that suggest imminent progression such as the FSCRT.