Purpose of the review: Cognitive impairment is common in kidney transplant recipients and affects quality of life, graft survival, morbidity, and mortality. In this review article we discuss the epidemiology, diagnosis, pathophysiology and future directions for cognitive impairment in kidney transplantation. We describe the potential role of pre-transplant cognition, immunosuppression and peri-transplant factors in post -transplant cognitive impairment.
Recent findings: A majority of patients with kidney transplant have cognitive impairment. Cognitive impairment affects both pre-transplant evaluation and post-transplant outcomes. Failure to identify patients with cognitive impairment can withhold appropriate care and timely intervention.
Summary: Cognitive impairment is common in kidney transplant and affects outcomes. Studies addressing modifiable risk factors and possible interventions to slow cognitive decline in patients with kidney disease are needed.
Keywords: Cognition; ESRD; Kidney transplant.