About this trial
This study is being completed to learn if high-definition transcranial direct current stimulation (HD-tDCS) has an effect on visual and thinking abilities in persons with posterior cortical atrophy (PCA). Participants will be randomized to receive real or sham HD-tDCS (8 sessions over 4 days).
Following the randomized treatment, participants will have optional open-label phase with real HD-tDCS up to 26 weeks and other possible testing.
Eligibility criteria
Qualifiers
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
Disqualifiers
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.
Trial design
Treatments tested in this trial
- HD-tDCS sessions
- Sham HD-tDCS sessions
- HD-tDCS sessions - Open-label (after randomized treatment)