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Evaluation of the Cognitive Performance of Hypertensive Patients with Silent Cerebrovascular Lesions
07:30

Evaluation of the Cognitive Performance of Hypertensive Patients with Silent Cerebrovascular Lesions

Published on: April 23, 2021

Microbleeds and silent brain infarctions are differently associated with cognitive dysfunction in patients with

Min Fang1, Chao Feng, Yu Xu

  • 1Department of Neurology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital of Tongji University, Shanghai, China.

International Journal of Medical Sciences
|August 29, 2013
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Microbleeds and silent brain infarctions significantly impact cognitive function in patients with advanced periventricular leukoaraiosis. Lobar microbleeds demonstrated the most substantial negative effect on cognitive performance.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Neuroimaging
  • Cognitive Science

Background:

  • Small vessel disease (SVD) encompasses leukoaraiosis, microbleeds (MB), and silent brain infarctions (SBI).
  • Advanced periventricular leukoaraiosis is a key indicator of cognitive decline.
  • MB and SBI often co-occur with leukoaraiosis, necessitating investigation into their combined impact.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the distinct and combined effects of MB and SBI on cognitive function in patients with advanced periventricular leukoaraiosis.
  • To identify specific SVD phenotypes contributing to cognitive impairment.

Main Methods:

  • 227 patients with advanced periventricular leukoaraiosis were categorized into control, MB, SBI, and MB&SBI groups.
  • Cognitive function was assessed using Mini-Mental State Examination, Montreal Cognitive Assessment, Clock Drawing Test, and Verbal Fluency Test.
  • Statistical analyses included chi-square tests, ANOVA, and multiple linear regressions to determine risk factors for cognitive dysfunction.

Main Results:

  • Patients with MB and MB&SBI showed significantly lower scores across all cognitive tests compared to controls.
  • SBI alone was associated with lower scores in the Clock Drawing Test and Verbal Fluency Test.
  • Age and MB presence were independent risk factors for overall cognitive decline, while SBI was specifically linked to deficits in executive function and processing speed.

Conclusions:

  • MB and SBI have differential associations with cognitive impairment in advanced periventricular leukoaraiosis.
  • Lobar MB exert the most significant negative influence on cognitive function.
  • Understanding these specific SVD markers can aid in predicting and potentially mitigating cognitive decline.
Keywords:
cognitive dysfunction.leukoaraiosismicrobleedssilent brain infarctionssmall vessel disease

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