The role of remote ischemic preconditioning of the brain in the treatment of patients with mild Alzheimer disease

Abstract

Background: In the current paper we are presenting the results of a crossover study aiming at investigating the role of ischemic remote preconditioning in the cognitive status of patients with Alzheimer’s disease and concurrent peripheral arteriopathy. Methods: We recruited 10 patients with mild Alzheimer’s disease and Rutherford stage 3 peripheral arteriopathy. After a thorough initial control, the patients were instructed and entered a standardized walking Programme for 2 months, followed by a Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) test. This was followed by a period of cessation of exercise also followed by a MMSE test. Results/Conclusion: Remote ischemic postconditioning resulting after daily claudication appearance through two months structured exercise led to a very significant improvement in MMSE. Amelioration was not preserved when remote postconditioning was discontinued.