Reversion or compensation of mild cognitive impairment to normal cognition: strategies to prevent the development of Alzheimer’s disease continuum

Abstract

Alzheimer’s disease continuum has been described as the progressive stages of the disease over a long period. This progression can be categorized into three main stages: preclinical, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and dementia. It has been suggested that there is a bidirectional relationship between the preclinical stage and MCI, but not between dementia and the earlier stages. The stage of MCI should be further analyzed, especially in cases where there is a reversion from MCI to a normal cognitive condition. The mechanisms behind this reversion deserve further investigation to differentiate true reversion from compensatory mechanisms. Analyzing reversion in greater detail could help identify potential therapies aimed at preventing or delaying the onset of dementia. As indicated, the primary focus has been on research indicating that MCI can revert to normal cognition. This reversion can occur by addressing risk factors through lifestyle changes, although a novel mechanism involving a transient functional compensation process in response to cognitive impairment should be also taken into account.