Revised Diagnostic Criteria for Vascular Cognitive Impairment and Dementia-The VasCog-2-WSO Criteria

Abstract

Importance: Several sets of diagnostic criteria have been proposed for vascular cognitive impairment and dementia (VCID). The International Society for Vascular Behavioural and Cognitive Disorders (VasCog) working group published comprehensive operationalized criteria in 2014. Considering subsequent advances in the field, a revision was needed. Objective: To update the VasCog criteria to achieve consensus on diagnosis of VCID. Design, Setting, and Participants: VasCog criteria and other published diagnostic guidelines, aided by literature review of recent developments in VCID, were used as reference points for an online Delphi survey (minimum 3 rounds, ≥75% threshold for agreement), including operationalization of criteria and guidance on potential biomarkers. Seventy international experts from diverse international regions were invited to participate in 2023. Results: Three survey rounds included 49 to 54 participants that agreed on VasCog-2 diagnostic criteria for preclinical, mild, and major dementia levels of vascular cognitive impairment (under the overarching term VCID). Research guidelines, including the use of novel neuroimaging and fluid biomarkers, were also agreed on. The World Stroke Organization (WSO) endorsed the criteria, hence named VasCog-2-WSO. Conclusions and Relevance: The VasCog-2-WSO criteria update the VasCog criteria for the diagnosis of VCID, providing operationalization and additional guidance on potential neuroimaging and fluid biomarkers. VasCog-2-WSO should provide an international standard for VCID diagnosis, facilitating diagnostic consistency among clinicians and researchers.