[Inflammation-relevant mechanisms for postoperative cognitive dysfunction and the preventive strategy].

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Immunology
• Geriatric Medicine

Background:

• Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is a mild cognitive disorder characterized by memory decline and changes in psychomotility, personality, and social skills after surgery.
• POCD predominantly affects the elderly, leading to prolonged hospital stays, reduced quality of life, increased mortality, and significant public health costs.
• The exact mechanisms underlying POCD are not fully understood, but inflammation is implicated as a key factor.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the role of inflammation in the development of postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD).
• To highlight the need for anti-inflammatory strategies in preventing POCD.

Main Methods:

• Review of previous studies investigating the link between inflammation and POCD.
• Analysis of pathways transmitting peripheral immune signals to the central nervous system post-surgery.

Main Results:

• Sterile surgery can induce peripheral inflammation, which may contribute to central neuroinflammation.
• The degree of central neuroinflammation varies among individuals, potentially influencing POCD occurrence.
• Inflammation is identified as a significant factor in the pathogenesis of POCD.

Conclusions:

• Inflammation plays a critical role in the development of postoperative cognitive dysfunction.
• Targeting anti-inflammatory therapies is a promising strategy for the prevention of POCD.
• Further research into neuroinflammation mechanisms is warranted to mitigate POCD incidence and impact.