A Systematic Review of the Definitions of Vascular Cognitive Impairment, No Dementia in Cohort Studies

Dement Geriatr Cogn Disord. 2016;42(1-2):69-79. doi: 10.1159/000448213. Epub 2016 Aug 31.

Abstract

Background/aims: No set operational criteria for vascular cognitive impairment, no dementia (VCI-ND) have yet been established. The aim of this study is to undertake a systematic review to compare definitions of VCI-ND that have been used in cohort studies.

Methods: Medline, PsycINFO and Embase were searched from inception to October 13, 2015. Initially, 3,142 records were screened, and 30 were included in this review.

Results: No single set of criteria for defining VCI-ND was identified. VCI-ND was broadly defined as an absence of dementia, cognitive impairment in at least one cognitive domain with signs of vascular involvement, and intact activities of daily living.

Conclusion: Defining criteria will enable individuals with VCI-ND to be efficiently compared across cohort studies to more accurately determine the prevalence and risk of dementia.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Cognitive Dysfunction / diagnosis*
  • Cognitive Dysfunction / psychology
  • Cohort Studies
  • Dementia, Vascular / diagnosis*
  • Dementia, Vascular / psychology
  • Humans
  • Mental Status and Dementia Tests / standards*
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Terminology as Topic