Multi-Infarct Dementia: A Historical Perspective

Dement Geriatr Cogn Dis Extra. 2017 May 4;7(1):160-171. doi: 10.1159/000470836. eCollection 2017 Jan-Apr.

Abstract

Background: Multi-infarct dementia (MID), a prominent subtype of vascular dementia (VaD), has only achieved recognition in the last 4 decades. Since its original description, the characterization, etiological understanding, and therapeutic direction of MID and other VaD subtypes has progressed at an astounding rate.

Summary: This paper divides the landmark discoveries and emergence of new research strategies for MID into decade-defining patterns so that a condensed picture of the total history of MID and its eventual inclusion as a VaD subtype emerges. This paper follows the first descriptive decade, a shift to a preventative focus, a renewed interest coinciding with timely advances in research technology, and a hopeful return to treatment possibilities for VaD.

Key message: Concisely tracing the historical lineage of the modern understanding of MID, both as a singular entity and as part of the VaD con-stellation of disorders, provides a novel perspective on the foundation upon which future advances in combating vascular contributions to dementia will be based.

Keywords: Cerebral infarction; Cerebrovascular disorders; Leukoencephalopathy; Vascular dementia.

Publication types

  • Review