Question

Which statement(s) accurately describe(s) mild cognitive impairment (select all that apply)?

a. Always progresses to AD
b. Caused by variety of factors and may progress to AD
c. Should be aggressively treated with acetylcholinesterase drugs
d. Caused by vascular infarcts that, if treated, will delay progression to AD
e. Patient is usually not aware that there is a problem with his or her memory

Answer 1

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) may progress to Alzheimer's disease but does not always, and awareness of memory problems usually persists in MCI patients. Aggressive treatment with acetylcholinesterase drugs is not a general approach for MCI. Treatment should focus on managing symptoms and addressing underlying causes, such as vascular issues, when applicable.

Step-by-step explanation:

Statements that accurately describe mild cognitive impairment (MCI) include that it is caused by a variety of factors and may progress to Alzheimer's disease (AD), but it does not always progress to AD. MCI should not be aggressively treated with acetylcholinesterase drugs as there is no cure for AD and treatments focus on managing symptoms. Additionally, patients with MCI are usually aware of their memory problems, contrary to the belief that they are not.

While acetylcholinesterase drugs like Aricept inhibit acetylcholine breakdown, enhancing cholinergic neurotransmission which may prolong brain neural function, this treatment is specifically for Alzheimer's disease and not necessarily MCI itself. Also, MCI can be caused by vascular infarcts and, in some instances, treating the underlying vascular issues might delay progression to AD. However, not all cases of MCI are due to vascular problems.