Expert Consensus on Treatment of Early Alzheimer's Disease with Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Combined with Cognitive Training

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) combined with cognitive training (CT) represent a therapeutic approach that integrates neuromodulation technology with cognitive rehabilitation training. Its essence lies in augmenting cognitive function through CT interventions, concurrently modulating cortical excitability with tDCS to promote neural plasticity and functional recovery. This consensus encapsulates the clinical applications of tDCS in conjunction with CT, encompassing contraindications, assessment methods (including neuropsychological assessments, functional MRI, EEG, multimodal MRI analysis, and near-infrared spectroscopy), as well as their impact on sensory perception, attention, working memory, decision-making ability, and other cognitive functions. The recommended target sites for tDCS combined with CT in the treatment of Alzheimer's Disease (AD) encompass the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), temporal and parietal cortices, frontotemporal cortex, and angular gyrus; electrical stimulation is synchronized with computerized cognitive training (CCT). The CCT training primarily covers attention, memory, perception, and logical reasoning. The current intensity ranges from 1 to 2 mA, with stimulation sessions of 20 minutes a time, five times a week, and three weeks as one treatment course. Treatment must be performed strictly in accordance with equipment specifications, operational protocols, safety guidelines, and precautions. Future research should aim to further opotimize treatment parameters and explore the potential applications in individuals with diverse cognitive impairments. The combination of tDCS with CT constitutes a scientifically robust, highly safe, and significantly effective rehabilitative approach, playing a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for patients.