Cognitive impairment in patients with Parkinson's disease: A 30-month follow-up study

Abstract

Objective: A longitudinal (30-month) study of the cognitive changes in Parkinson's disease patients and analysis of influencing factors.

Methods: The cognitive function and related symptoms of 102 patients with idiopathic Parkinson's disease were assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), and relevant scales, at baseline and 30-month follow-up. The t-test, nonparametric tests, and regression analyses were used to evaluate cognitive decline and investigate risk factors for cognitive impairment.

Results: From baseline to follow-up, the MMSE and MoCA scores significantly decreased, respectively, from 28.16±2.29 to 26.18±3.64, and from 24.60±4.23 to 21.94±5.47 (both P<0.001). Impairment was observed in multiple cognitive areas, significantly in naming, delayed recall, and orientation (P<0.01). Patients at baseline with postural instability and gait disturbance (PIGD), lower MoCA scores, or depression had a higher risk of cognitive impairment at follow-up (P<0.01).

Conclusion: Cognitive impairment is highly prevalent in Parkinson's disease patients, especially for those with lower MoCA scores, PIGD, and depression.

Keywords: Cognitive impairment; Follow-up; Mini-mental state examination; Montreal cognitive assessment (MoCA); Parkinson's disease.