Serum S100B in elderly patients with and without delirium

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Biochemistry
• Geriatrics

Background:

• Elevated S100B protein is linked to neurological diseases causing cognitive dysfunction.
• Delirium is a common condition in older adults, often associated with poor cognitive outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare serum S100B levels in patients with and without delirium.
• To explore associations between S100B levels and delirium subtypes.

Main Methods:

• Included 412 acutely admitted medical patients aged 65+.
• Diagnosed delirium using Confusion Assessment Method.
• Measured serum S100B via electrochemiluminescence immunoassay.

Main Results:

• Patients with delirium were older and had more preexistent cognitive impairment.
• S100B levels were significantly different between groups (p=0.004).
• Highest S100B levels were observed post-delirium, especially in older, cognitively impaired patients with infection.

Conclusions:

• Higher S100B levels are associated with delirium, peaking after resolution.
• Further research is needed to understand S100B's role in delirium and long-term cognitive impairment.