Objective

2

To analyze the outcome indexes of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of acupuncture and moxibustion for mild cognitive impairment (MCI) so as to provide a reference for the protocol design and the construction of a core outcome set in relevant clinical trials of acupuncture and moxibustion for MCI.

Methods

2

From CNKI

Wanfang

VIP

SinoMed

PubMed

Cochrane Library

EMbase

and Web of Science

RCTs of acupuncture and moxibustion for MCI were searched

and the time duration was ranged from January 1st

2018 to October 31th

2023. The general information and outcome indexes of the included studies were collected and analyzed through literature screening and data extraction.

Results

2

A total of 46 studies were eligible

with 2 072 samples and 18 diagnostic criteria involved. The outcome indexes were categorized into 7 domains according to functional attributes

including clinical symptoms/signs

TCM symptoms/syndromes

physical and chemical examination

quality of life

psychiatric and mental health

safety assessment

and patient satisfaction. Eighty-four outcome indexes were reported

with the use frequency of 237. Currently

RCTs of acupuncture and moxibustion for MCI were limited in the big difference in neuropsychological assessment tool

the inadequate reports on educational degree/educational years

the diversity of physical and chemical detection indexes

the inconsistency of the time points for outcome evaluation

the insufficient application of primary and secondary outcomes

the lack of the application of TCM diagnosis

pattern/syndrome differentiation and outcomes

and the shortage in long-term prognosis and economic assessment.

Conclusion

2

It is recommended to specify and develop the core outcome set of acupuncture and moxibustion for MCI to advance the standardization of related research design

the rational selection of outcome indexes

and the reliability of the research results.