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MRI Markers Predict Cognitive Decline Assessed by Telephone Interview: The Northern Manhattan Study
Clinton B Wright1, Chuanhui Dong, Michelle R Caunca
1*Evelyn F. McKnight Brain Institute Departments of †Neurology ‡Public Health Sciences, Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL Departments of §Epidemiology ∥Biostatistics, Mailman School of Public Health ¶Department of Neurology, College of Physicians and Surgeons of Columbia University, New York, NY #Department of Neurology and Center for Neuroscience, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA.
Background:
Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) allows researchers to observe structural pathology that may predict cognitive decline. Some populations are less accessible through traditional in-person visits, and may be under-represented in the literature.
Methods:
We examined white matter hyperintensity volume (WMHV) and cerebral parenchymal fraction (CPF) as predictors of cognitive decline measured by a modified Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status (TICS-m) in the Northern Manhattan Stroke Study, a racially and ethnically diverse cohort study. Participants were stroke-free, above 50 years old, and had no contraindications to MRI. A total of 1143 participants had MRI and TICS-m data available [mean age 70 (SD=9), 61% women, 66% Hispanic, 17% Black, 15% white].
Results:
Those in the third and fourth quartiles of WMHV had significantly greater decline in TICS-m over time as compared with those in the first quartile (Q3: -0.17 points/year, Q4: -0.30 points/year). Those in the bottom 2 quartiles of CPF had significantly greater decline in TICS-m than those in the top quartile (Q1: -0.3 points/year, Q2: -0.2 points/year). Apolipoprotein E (APOE) e4 allele carriers had greater cognitive decline per unit of CPF. Those with greater CPF preserve TICS-m performance better despite greater WMHV.
Conclusions:
Telephone cognitive assessments can detect decline due to white matter lesions and smaller brain volumes.