Treatment of mild cognitive impairment in Parkinson’s disease

Abstract

Parkinson’s disease-mild cognitive impairment (PD-MCI) is diagnosed when individuals with Parkinson’s disease (PD) have a decline in cognitive abilities (as recognized by themselves, close contacts, or physicians) that is demonstrable on cognitive testing but not yet severe enough to interfere with daily function (i.e., falls short of a diagnosis of dementia). PD-MCI is present in as many as 40% of individuals at the time of PD diagnosis and is also common throughout the disease course. A recent study suggests that all patients with PD-MCI progress to dementia within 5 years. There are no current pharmacologic options for treating PD-MCI. Therapeutic approaches include addressing modifiable risk factors, cognitive training, and physical exercise. Prognostic counseling is highly individualized but an important part of PD-MCI care.