Backgroud Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is an unstable cognitive decline which is seen as an intermediate stage between normal aging and dementia, with high risks of developing dementia. Anesthetics may exert different influence on patients with preoperative MCI. If the anesthetic used improperly, it will directly aggravate brain damage, inhibit brain functions, and even accelerate the conversion of MCI to dementia. Objective To explore the research progress of mild cognitive impairment and influence of anesthetics commonly used. Content This review discusses knowledge regarding MCI, including definitions, diagnostic criteria, neuropathology, the relationship between MCI and Alzheimer's disease ( AD) or Parkinson's disease (PD), anesthetics' influence on MCI. Trend The further research on MCI can provide the clinician with new tools to identify and hopefully treat MCI, and also provide a new idea for the reasonable selection and application of anesthetics.