Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 23, 2025
Evaluation of the Cognitive Performance of Hypertensive Patients with Silent Cerebrovascular Lesions
Published on: April 23, 2021
Intracranial microembolic signals might be a potential risk factor for cognitive impairment
Jing Yan1,2,3,4, Zhaoxia Li1,2,3,4, Melissa Wills5
1Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
Abstract:
Objective: We aimed to explore the relationship between microembolic signals (MES) and cognitive impairment in patients with neurological disorders using a 30-minute MES monitoring test.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed patients who visited outpatient departments and underwent a 30-minute MES monitoring session using dual-channel transcranial doppler (TCD) at Beijing Tiantan hospital between July 2016 and December 2018. All patients completed the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Cognitive impairment was defined as a MoCA score of less than 26. MES were identified according to the criteria of the International Consensus Group on Microembolus Detection.Results: Of the 1356 subjects who underwent MES monitoring, 159 patients (including 50 cases of MES positive and 109 cases of MES negative) had both analyzable MES monitoring recording and cognition evaluation data, of which 72 had cognitive impairment. Compared with the group with no deficits in cognitive function, the proportion of MES positive was significantly higher in patients with impaired cognitive function - that is, 47% (34/72) versus 18.4% (16/87), respectively, with p < 0.05. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, MES were independently associated with lower MoCA score (odd ratios (OR), 7.36; 95% confidence intervals (CI), 2.72-19.85, P < 0.0001).Conclusions: In this retrospective study, we found a possible correlation and relationship between MES and cognitive impairment. Further studies are required to determine whether continuous cerebral microembolization to the brain will lead to progressive cognitive impairment.
Insights
Microembolic signals (MES) are linked to cognitive impairment in neurological patients. Higher MES detection rates were observed in those with cognitive deficits, suggesting a potential correlation.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neuroimaging
- Vascular Neurology
Background:
- Cognitive impairment is a significant concern in patients with neurological disorders.
- Microembolic signals (MES) are indicators of cerebral microembolization.
- The relationship between MES and cognitive function requires further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between MES and cognitive impairment.
- To utilize a 30-minute MES monitoring test in conjunction with cognitive assessments.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of patients undergoing MES monitoring via dual-channel transcranial Doppler (TCD).
- Cognitive function assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA); impairment defined as MoCA score < 26.
- MES identification based on International Consensus Group criteria.
Main Results:
- Of 159 patients with analyzable data, 72 had cognitive impairment.
- MES positive rate was significantly higher in patients with cognitive impairment (47%) compared to those without (18.4%).
- MES were independently associated with lower MoCA scores (OR, 7.36; P < 0.0001).
Conclusions:
- A potential correlation exists between MES and cognitive impairment in neurological patients.
- MES may serve as a biomarker for cognitive decline.
- Further research is needed to confirm if continuous microembolization causes progressive cognitive impairment.
