경도인지장애 치료 목적의 한약 처방과 두부 전침 병용 치료의 처방 및 혈위 선정에 대한 한-중 전문가 합의: 델파이 연구

Abstract

Objectives: Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) serves as a transitional stage leading to Alzheimer’s disease and shows limited responsiveness to standard Alzheimer’s treatments. This Delphi study involving experts from Korea and China aimed to identify potential herbal formulas and scalp electroacupuncture acupoints for combined therapy to help prevent cognitive decline in MCI. Methods: A questionnaire assessing the cognitive enhancement effects of herbal formulas and scalp electroacupuncture was created using the RAND/UCLA 9-point scale. Literature was sourced from PUBMED, NDSL, OASIS, KMBASE, and CNKI, alongside traditional Korean medicine dementia guidelines. Consensus was evaluated using the interpercentile range adjusted for symmetry method. A panel of ten experts from Korea and China participated, with two rounds of online surveys conducted. Items lacking consensus in the first round were supplemented with additional information for reevaluation in the second round. Results: In the first round, consensus was reached on nine herbal formulas, two combinations of scalp electroacupuncture acupoints, and one safety-related acupoint item as suitable for enhancing cognition in MCI. Although Samhwangsasim-tang did not achieve consensus initially, it was reassessed in the second round with added information, resulting in a consensus that its effects remained uncertain. Conclusions: The two-round Delphi process yielded agreement on the following herbal formulas for consideration in MCI: Boyanghwano-tang, Jujadokseo-hwan, Jihwang-eumja, Guibi-tang, Yukmijihwanghwan, Ondam-tang, Palmul-tang, Banhasasim-tang, and Palmijihwang-tang. Electroacupuncture treatment was recommended at the acupoints EX-HN1, GV20, GV24, and GB20.