Biochemical markers for brain damage after cardiac surgery -- time profile and correlation with cognitive dysfunction

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Cardiology
• Biomarkers

Background:

• Cerebral dysfunction is a common complication following cardiac surgery.
• Neuron specific enolase (NSE) and S-100 beta protein are potential blood markers for this dysfunction.
• Determining the optimal timing for blood sampling is crucial for accurate assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the utility of NSE and S-100 beta protein as biomarkers for cerebral dysfunction after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).
• To identify the optimal time point for blood sample collection to detect early signs of cognitive impairment.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 15 patients undergoing CABG was studied.
• Serum concentrations of NSE and S-100 beta protein were measured pre-surgery and at multiple postoperative time points (12, 18, 24, 30, 36 hours).
• Neuropsychological testing was conducted pre-surgery, at hospital discharge, and 3 months post-discharge.

Main Results:

• Both NSE and S-100 beta protein levels increased significantly post-surgery.
• Cognitive dysfunction was observed in 7 patients at the first postoperative test.
• A significant correlation was found between elevated NSE levels at 36 hours and cognitive dysfunction (R = 0.76, P=0.001).
• No significant correlation was found between S-100 beta protein and cognitive dysfunction, nor between either marker and dysfunction at 3 months.

Conclusions:

• Neuron specific enolase (NSE) serves as a valuable blood marker for identifying early cognitive dysfunction post-CABG.
• The optimal timing for blood sampling to detect this dysfunction is approximately 36 hours after surgery.