Cognitive Screening Tools in Spanish for Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Abstract

Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) represents the earliest stage of a chronic and degenerative condition, often undetected, impacting individuals, families, and healthcare systems. Early identification is critical. This study evaluates the diagnostic accuracy of MCI screening tools in Spanish-speaking populations, aiming to enhance early detection, reduce misdiagnosis and underdiagnosis, and improve clinical outcomes. This systematic review stems from the Project Dendrite (PMP22/00084 - "Personalized Medicine in the Identification of Preclinical Cognitive Impairment: Development of a Predictive Risk Model") in which it was demonstrated that the five screening tests employed in the study (MMSE, MoCA, Fototest, MiniCog, T@M) lacked consistency and yielded variable results, even in the same participant. This finding highlights the need to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of the screening tools and their applicability in early cognitive decline detection.