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Cognitive function in patients with diabetes mellitus: guidance for daily care
Paula S Koekkoek1, L Jaap Kappelle2, Esther van den Berg3
1Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Netherlands.
Abstract:
Diabetes mellitus is associated with an increase in the risk of dementia and the proportion of patients who convert from mild cognitive impairment (MCI) to dementia. In addition to MCI and dementia, the stages of diabetes-associated cognitive dysfunction include subtle cognitive changes that are unlikely to affect activities of daily life or diabetes self-management. These diabetes-associated cognitive decrements have structural brain correlates detectable with brain MRI, but usually show little progression over time. Although cognitive decrements do not generally represent a pre-dementia stage in patients below the age of 60-65 years, in older individuals these subtle cognitive changes might represent the earliest stages of a dementia process. Acknowledgment of diabetes-associated cognitive decrements can help to improve understanding of patients' symptoms and guide management. Future challenges are to establish the importance of screening for cognitive impairment in people with diabetes, to identify those at increased risk of accelerated cognitive decline at an early stage, and to develop effective treatments.
Insights
Diabetes mellitus increases dementia risk and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) progression. Subtle cognitive changes in diabetes may indicate early dementia in older adults, necessitating further research and screening.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Endocrinology
- Geriatrics
Background:
- Diabetes mellitus is linked to higher dementia risk and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) progression.
- Cognitive dysfunction in diabetes ranges from subtle changes to dementia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the spectrum of cognitive dysfunction associated with diabetes mellitus.
- To understand the relationship between diabetes, cognitive changes, and dementia.
- To highlight the need for screening and early intervention in diabetic cognitive impairment.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on diabetes mellitus and cognitive function.
- Analysis of brain MRI findings in patients with diabetes-associated cognitive decrements.
- Age-stratified analysis of cognitive changes in relation to dementia risk.
Main Results:
- Diabetes is associated with increased risk of dementia and MCI to dementia conversion.
- Subtle cognitive decrements, with brain MRI correlates, typically show slow progression.
- In individuals over 60-65, these changes may signify early dementia stages.
Conclusions:
- Diabetes-associated cognitive decrements require acknowledgment for improved patient management.
- Screening for cognitive impairment in diabetes patients is crucial.
- Identifying at-risk individuals and developing treatments for accelerated cognitive decline are future priorities.
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