Detection of cognitive decline in metabolic syndrome

Background Metabolic syndrome (MetS), a risk factor for many vascular conditions, may be a prodromal manifestation of vascular cognitive impairment. Diagnosing early stages of cerebrovascular pathology can lead to prevention and delay of the progression of pathological conditions such as vascular cognitive impairment. Methods The objective of the study was to investigate new biomarkers for early diagnosis of MetS and cognitive decline as a follow-up. A cardiological, neuropsychological and neurological study was conducted among 75 Bulgarian participants. Beta amyloid in the blood, procalcitonin (PCT), NT-proBNP as predictors of cognitive impairment in patients with metabolic syndrome were identified. Clinical, anthropometric, biochemical, neuropsychological, cognitive and statistical data processing. Plasma amyloid beta (Aβ) levels, procalcitonin, NT-proBNP in MetS were investigated in participants with MetS and in group of healthy people. Results In the present study, plasma levels of Aβ42 and Aβ40 were found to be reduced in MetS participants. Procalcitonin concentration was significantly higher in males than in females. NT-proBNP was significantly higher in females than in males (p < 0.001). Regression analysis showed a positive relationship between NT-proBNP and systolic blood pressure (p < 0.001) and fasting blood glucose (p < 0.05). An inverse relation between NT-proBNP and diastolic blood pressure, waist circumference, triglycerides, HDL- and LDL cholesterol was found. Conclusions There was a positive association between PCT levels, decreased levels of Aβ42 and Aβ40, as well as elevated NT-proBNP and cognitive impairment in people with MetC. A concentration of NT-proBNP of 60 pg / ml or greater could be an indicator of metabolic abnormalities and early cognitive decline. Key messages Metabolic syndrome may be a prodromal manifestation of vascular cognitive impairment. The use of new biomarkers for diagnosis can lead to preventing and slowing the progression of complications associated with MetS.