Personalized high-definition transcranial direct current stimulation for posterior cortical atrophy

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This randomized, sham-controlled protocol gives participants either real or sham HD-tDCS across eight sessions over four days, followed by an optional open-label phase of real HD-tDCS extending up to 26 weeks. Imaging (fMRI and PET/CT) and standardized memory, visual, and computerized cognitive tests are used before and after treatment to measure change. The approach uses individualized stimulation targeting and compares active stimulation to a placebo-like sham. Remote long-term visits are possible but require a study partner to administer stimulation at home, and participants must meet language and medical compatibility requirements.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Diagnosis or symptoms consistent with PCA
* Fluent in English
* HD-tDCS compatible
* Stable on relevant medications for at least approximately 4 weeks prior to study enrollment
* If completing any additional, optional, long-term study visits in a remote location (i.e., not our office), a study partner is required in order to administer HD-tDCS. Those choosing to return to our office may have, but are not required to have, a study partner.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Other relevant neurological disease (e.g., epilepsy) or injuries (e.g., large vessel stroke, moderate-severe traumatic brain injury) viewed as primary to deficits since these could interfere with etiologic considerations and confound study results
* Active, relevant psychiatric conditions (e.g., bipolar disorder, schizophrenia) since the symptoms of these conditions may confound study participation.
* A recent (e.g., within the past 2 years) significant history of, or current, alcohol or drug abuse/dependence. Remote history of abuse/dependence is not exclusionary as long as it is not considered to be the primary etiology for visuospatial deficits.
* Women that are lactating/breastfeeding, pregnant, or may potentially be pregnant will be excluded from the study.

Where it's running

• University of Michigan
  Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Benjamin Hamstead, PhD — University of Michigan
• Study coordinator: Stephen Schlaefflin, BS
• Email: schlst@umich.edu
• Phone: 734-936-7360

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.