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[Does an association between increased homocystein levels and cognitive dysfunction also exist in multimorbid
S Hengstermann1, A Hanemann, R Nieczaj
1Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Forschungsgruppe Geriatrie am Evangelischen Geriatriezentrum Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
Zeitschrift Fur Gerontologie Und Geriatrie
|June 7, 2008
Summary
Elevated homocysteine (Hcys) and low folate were studied in multimorbid elderly patients with cognitive dysfunction (CD). Results indicate Hcys and folate are not significant biological risk factors for CD in this population.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Nutritional Neuroscience
- Biochemistry
Context:
- Cognitive dysfunction (CD) is a growing concern in aging populations, particularly among multimorbid elderly patients.
- Previous research on homocysteine (Hcys) and folate in relation to CD has primarily focused on healthy individuals.
- The role of these biomarkers in multimorbid elderly individuals with cognitive decline remains less understood.
Purpose:
- To investigate the association between total blood homocysteine (Hcys) and folate levels and cognitive dysfunction (CD) in multimorbid elderly patients.
- To determine if Hcys and folate are adequate biological markers for identifying CD in this specific demographic.
- To explore potential correlations between nutritional status, biochemical parameters, and cognitive function.
Summary:
- A cross-sectional study assessed 189 multimorbid elderly patients using the Short Performance Cognitive Test (SKT) for CD.
- Biochemical parameters (Hcys, folate, vitamin B12), nutritional status, and daily intake were analyzed.
- Elevated plasma Hcys was observed independently of CD, while dietary folate intake was significantly reduced. No significant differences in biochemical markers or nutritional status were found between cognitive function groups.
Impact:
- This study suggests that plasma Hcys and serum folate are not significant biological risk factors for cognitive dysfunction in multimorbid elderly patients.
- Findings highlight the need for further research into other potential contributors to CD in this vulnerable population.
- Results may inform future diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for cognitive decline in the elderly, emphasizing a broader scope beyond Hcys and folate levels.
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