Title:Distribution of Cortical Atrophy Associated with Cognitive Decline in Alzheimer’s
Disease: A Cross-Sectional Quantitative Structural MRI Study
from PUMCH Dementia Cohort
Volume: 19
Issue: 8
关键词:
阿尔茨海默病,皮质厚度,皮质体积,认知能力下降,结构MRI,定量
摘要:
Background: Quantitative measures of atrophy on structural MRI are sensitive to the neurodegeneration
that occurs in AD, and the topographical pattern of atrophy could serve as a sensitive
and specific biomarker.
Objective: We aimed to examine the distribution of cortical atrophy associated with cognitive decline
and disease stage based on quantitative structural MRI analysis in a Chinese cohort to inform clinical
diagnosis and follow-up of AD patients.
Methods: One hundred and eleven patients who were clinically diagnosed with probable AD were enrolled.
All patients completed a systemic cognitive evaluation and domain-specific batteries. The severity
of cognitive decline was defined by MMSE score: 1-10 severe, 11-20 moderate, and 21-30
mild. Cortical volume and thickness determined using 3D-T1 MRI data were analyzed using voxelbased
morphometry and surface-based analysis supported by the DR. Brain Platform.
Results: The male:female ratio was 38:73. The average age was 70.8 ± 10.6 years. The mild: moderate:
severe ratio was 48:38:25. Total grey matter volume was significantly related to cognition while
the relationship between white matter volume and cognition did not reach statistical significance. The
volume of the temporal-parietal-occipital cortex was most strongly associated with cognitive decline
in group analysis, while the hippocampus and entorhinal area had a less significant association with
cognitive decline. Volume of subcortical grey matter was also associated with cognition. Volume and
thickness of temporoparietal cortexes were significantly correlated with the cognitive decline, with a
left predominance observed.
Conclusion: Cognitive deterioration was associated with cortical atrophy. Volume and thickness of
the left temporal-parietal-occipital cortex were most important in early diagnosis and longitudinal
evaluation of AD in clinical practice. Cognitively relevant cortices were left predominant.