Exploring anatomical brain heterogeneity in subjects with mild cognitive impairment

The wide range of clinical manifestations in Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) poses a significant challenge. The inherent heterogeneity within MCI emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive characterization of individuals diagnosed with this condition. We identified and characterized MCI subgroups with distinct neuropsychological profiles within the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative. A total of 194 individuals diagnosed with MCI were partitioned into 7 subgroups using a data-driven clustering approach that incorporated followup information. Voxel-based morphometry was then utilized to investigate patterns of gray matter atrophy in each of these subgroups, comparing them against 108 cognitively normal individuals. The analysis disclosed specific brain regions with significant differences. A remarkable relationship between cognitive impairment and the extent of brain atrophy was observed. Increasing cognitive and behavioral abnormalities corresponded to more extensive gray matter atrophy patterns. This study enhances the understanding of neurodegenerative patterns in mild cognitive impairment, providing valuable perspectives for improved characterization and potential interventions in the prodromal stage of Alzheimer's Disease.