Tissue oxygen saturation and pulsatility index as markers for amnestic mild cognitive impairment: NIRS and TCD study

Abstract Objective To evaluate the utility of near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) and transcranial Doppler (TCD) parameters as potential markers for amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI). Methods By means of NIRS and TCD, noninvasive and inexpensive technologies, we studied 21 patients with aMCI (10 M and 11 F, 70.2±7.3years) and 10 age matched healthy controls. Results By means of NIRS, we found a significant mean decrease of tissue oxygen saturation of cortex microcirculation (TOI), – 27%, p p Conclusions Our study reveals that the TOI reduction on the temporal-parietal cortex of both side and the increase of PI in both MCA are associated with a clinical diagnosis of aMCI patients. Significance The reduction of TOI may be considered a new marker for aMCI, especially when combined with the increase of PI in MCA.