Relationship between finger movement characteristics and voxel-based specific regional analysis systems for Alzheimer’s disease

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundAging is the most significant risk factor of dementia. Alzheimer’s disease accounts for approximately 60%–80% of all dementia cases in elderly individuals. This study aimed to examine the relationship between finger movements and brain function in patients with Alzheimer’s disease, using VSRAD, and explore the relationship between VSRAD and cognitive function (MoCA-J).MethodsPatients diagnosed with AD, at the Center for Comprehensive Care and Research on Memory Disorders, were included in the study. The diagnostic criteria were based on the National Institute on Aging-Alzheimer’s Association. Patients were excluded based on set criteria. A finger-tapping device was used for all measurements. Participants performed the following task, in order: non-dominant hand, dominant hand, simultaneously, and alternate hands. Movements were measured for 15 s each. The relationship between distance and output was measured. MRI measurements were performed, after which VSRAD was performed using sagittal section 3D T1-weighted images. The Z-score was used to calculate the degree of atrophy. Pearson’s product-moment correlation coefficient was used to analyze the relationship between the Z-score and mean values of the parameters in the finger-tapping movements. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.ResultsSixty-two patients were included in the study. Z-scores for MoCA-J analysis, percentage of total brain atrophy in the white matter, and other VSRAD parameters showed varying negative correlations (r = -0. 28, p = 0. 035, r = -0. 31, p = 0. 020, and r = -0. 52, p < 0. 001), respectively. Varying positive correlations between Z-score and the SD of distance rate of velocity peak in extending movements in the non-dominant hand were observed.ConclusionThe SD of distance rate of velocity peak in extending movements and the Z-score showed a significant relationship. An association between neuropsychological tests and overall degree of brain atrophy was also observed.