Remediating Cognitive Impairments in Dementia of Alzheimer's Type Through Concurrent Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation and Cognitive Training: A Case Report

Abstract

Objectives: Dementia of Alzheimer Type (DAT) is associated with progressive cognitive impairments. Such a clinically significant condition is known to affect approximately 9.5% of people over 70 years of age. However, it is accepted as a more challengeable medical entity because of its increasing atypical presentation, rarity of efficient treatments, and diagnostic and prevention challenges.Materials & Methods: we present a case who referred with 5 months history of cognitive decline following Medial Temporal Lobe (MTL) atrophy upon neuroimaging. Following cognitive and neurophysiological assessments, she underwent 21 consecutive sessions of transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) 3 times per week. Concurrently, a media-rich computer platform was administered for cognitive and behavioral remediation. Results: Based on the evidence regarding the use of tDCS in dementia, we aimed at stabilizing the cognitive profile and halting or slowing down the process of progressive cognitive decline in the present case. The outcome of our neuromodulatory intervention using tDCS supported the beneficial impact of such an approach in not only stabilizing but also ameliorating cognitive functions. This is especially important when rapid progression of cognitive symptoms in DAT is of concern.Conclusion: The promising clinical course of this specific case supports the possible beneficial effects of tDCS in halting the progression of symptoms in DAT. Sham-controlled clinical trials would get momentum to highlight clinical impact of such an intervention in DAT.