Association between asymptomatic carotid stenosis and cognitive function: a systematic review
Xue-Li Chang1, Hong-Qing Zhou, Chun-Yan Lei
1Stroke Clinical Research Unit, Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China.
Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews
|June 4, 2013
Summary
Asymptomatic carotid stenosis (CS) is linked to cognitive impairment, challenging its "silent" status. Further research is needed to confirm this association and explore contributing factors like older age and reduced cerebral blood flow.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Vascular Medicine
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- Asymptomatic carotid stenosis (CS) was traditionally considered clinically silent.
- Emerging evidence suggests a potential link between CS and cognitive impairment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review the literature and determine the association between asymptomatic CS and cognitive function.
- To identify factors that may mediate the relationship between CS and cognitive decline.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature review of multiple databases (Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CNKI).
- Inclusion of 8 cross-sectional and 2 community-based cohort studies.
- Analysis of data from 763 participants with CS and 6308 without CS.
Main Results:
- A significant association between asymptomatic CS and cognitive impairment was supported by most included studies.
- Pooled analysis indicated that older age and cerebral hypoperfusion are associated with cognitive decline in patients with CS.
- The findings challenge the notion of CS being clinically silent.
Conclusions:
- Asymptomatic carotid stenosis may be associated with cognitive impairment, contrary to previous beliefs.
- High-quality studies are warranted to further investigate this association.
- Understanding this link may have implications for cognitive health management in patients with CS.
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