Infectious diseases and cognition: do we have to worry?
Virgilio Hernandez-Ruiz1,2, Luc Letenneur3, Tamas Fülöp4
1UMR 1219, Univ. Bordeaux, INSERM, Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, 33000, Bordeaux, France. virgilioh@gmail.com.
Summary
Infectious diseases, both acute and chronic, significantly increase the risk of cognitive decline and dementia in older adults. Understanding this link is crucial for managing aging and cognitive health.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Infectious Diseases
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Aging is associated with immune system decline, increasing susceptibility to infections.
- Infections, both acute and chronic, can manifest with cognitive disturbances.
- Cognitive function is a critical aspect of healthy aging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of cognitive outcomes in older adults following infectious diseases.
- To highlight the significance of cognition as a key domain affected by infections in the elderly.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search of MEDLINE/PubMed was performed.
- Articles focused on cognitive impairment linked to acute infections and chronic conditions were identified.
- Specific pathogens including HIV, herpes viruses, HCV, Lyme disease, H. pylori, periodontitis, and SARS-CoV-2 were examined.
Main Results:
- Numerous infectious diseases share common mechanisms that elevate the risk of cognitive decline and dementia in older individuals.
- The cumulative effect of infections and age-related risk factors significantly impacts cognitive health.
- Preventive strategies like vaccination were also considered.
Conclusions:
- Infectious diseases play a substantial role in the cognitive trajectories of older adults.
- Further research is warranted to fully appreciate the impact of infections on cognitive aging.
- Considering cognition as a primary outcome in infectious diseases of the elderly is essential.
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