Mapping the Neuropsychiatric Symptoms in Alzheimer's Disease Using Biomarkers, Cognitive Abilities, and Personality Traits: A Systematic Review.

Background/

Objectives

Symptoms (NPS) in Alzheimer's disease (AD) have multiple effects in daily living, not only for the patients but for their caregivers too. The present systematic review was performed in order to identify if biomarkers, cognitive functions, and personality traits can be considered as important factors for the development and maintenance of these symptoms.

Methods

To achieve that, the existing literature spanning the period from 2018 to 2024 was critically analyzed. To be included in the review, a study had to investigate any of the factors mentioned above. In total, 182 articles were assessed for eligibility, and 50 met the inclusion criteria.

Results

Most of the studies were focused on the role of biomarkers and found that amyloid β, tau and phospho-tau protein are closely related to the incidence and the severity of NPS. In fewer studies, cognitive function and personality traits were also associated with NPS.

Conclusions

In conclusion, biomarkers, cognitive function and personality traits are associated with NPS, but the underlying mechanisms, still, mostly remain unknown.