Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 2, 2025
Evaluation of the Cognitive Performance of Hypertensive Patients with Silent Cerebrovascular Lesions
Published on: April 23, 2021
[Polycythemia vera as a cause for progressive cognitive impairment]
Michael Kowar1, Kai Wilhelm2, Andreas H Jacobs1
1Johanniter-Kliniken Bonn, Bonn, Klinik für Geriatrie mit Neurologie und Tagesklinik.
Insights
Cognitive decline in an elderly patient was linked to newly diagnosed polycythemia vera (PV), a blood disorder. Effective PV treatment led to significant cognitive improvement, highlighting the need to investigate treatable causes of cognitive impairment.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Hematology
- Geriatrics
Background:
- Progressive cognitive decline can significantly impact quality of life in elderly individuals.
- Subcortical atherosclerotic encephalopathy (SAE) is a common cause of cognitive impairment in older adults.
- Secondary causes of cognitive decline must be thoroughly investigated for potential treatment.
History:
A 82-years old woman was admitted with a progressive cognitive decline for further investigations and treatment.
Findings And Diagnosis:
In the computed tomography of the brain findings of subcortical artherosclerotic encephalopathy (SAE) were present. Laboratory findings revealed elevated hemoglobin-levels (19.9 g/dl). In further investigations we found a mutation in JAK-2 as diagnostic sign for polycythemia vera (Pv). After specific treatment of the Pv cognition improved significantly.
Discussion:
In this case report we were able to relate the progressive cognitive impairment in the context of newly diagnosed Pv in conjunction with pre-existing SAE. After Pv-directed therapy cognition improved. This case report underlines the importance of a good diagnostic work-up of patients with cognitive impairment to rule out secondary and possible treatable causes.
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