Classification of subjective cognitive decline, mild cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s’ disease using superficial white matter imaging marker

Motivation: Subjective cognitive decline (SCD) is known to increase the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease (AD) but remains poorly characterized. Identifying SCD is valuable for enabling early intervention. Goal(s): This study aims to identify superficial white matter (SWM) markers to classify early Alzheimer's stages. Approach: DTI indices in SWM were compared across five groups (healthy volunteers subjective cognitive decline, objectively-defined subtle cognitive decline, aMCI and AD). Then, the indicators of the difference areas are used for inter-group classification. Results: Compared to controls, disease groups showed specific SWM changes, with Obj-SCD vs. HV and AD vs. HV achieving best AUCs of 0.76 and 0.85, respectively. Impact: This study identifies specific SWM markers that distinguish the prodromic states of AD. By enhancing diagnostic precision for SCD, it enables targeted early interventions and opens pathways for more effective AD prevention strategies.