Subjective memory complaints in Chinese subjects with mild cognitive impairment and early Alzheimer's disease

Background Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) represents a transitional state between normal aging and dementia. However, there is inconsistent opinion as to the validity of subjective memory complaints as a criterion for diagnosis. Objective This study aimed to examine the potential significance of applying a short memory questionnaire in the assessment of Chinese subjects with MCI and early dementia. Methods Three hundred and six ambulatory Chinese subjects were recruited. Each participant completed a short memory questionnaire. They were also assessed with the Chinese versions of the mini‐mental state examination (CMMSE), Alzheimer's disease assessment scale—cognitive subscale (ADAS‐Cog), category verbal fluency test (CVFT) and span tests. Severity of cognitive impairment was evaluated using the Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR); subjects with CDR 0.5 were further classified into MCI not demented (MCIND) and MCI possible incipient dementia (MCIID) depending on the subscale scores of CDR. Results An increasing frequency of memory complaints with increasing CDR was observed (Kruskal Wallis test, chi square = 21.29, df 3, p