Memory, Executive, and Intellectual Functions in Adults with Moyamoya Disease

Abstract

Objective: Cognitive function can decline in adults with moyamoya disease (MMD). Memory, which is an essential but complex and multifaceted function, underpins executive and intellectual functions. However, the relationship between memory and executive or intellectual functions in adults with MMD has not been well studied. The relationship between memory and cerebral blood flow has also not been elucidated. This study investigated correlations between memory, executive function, and intellectual function, and associations between cerebral blood flow and memory in adults with MMD.

Methods: Memory, executive function, and intellectual function were assessed using the Wechsler Memory Scale-Revised (WMS-R), Frontal Assessment Battery (FAB), and Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) third or fourth edition, respectively, in 31 adults with MMD. Cerebral blood flow was measured with iodine ¹²³I-iodoamphetamine single-photon emission computed tomography.

Results: WMS-R scores correlated significantly with total FAB and WAIS scores before and after revascularization. Cerebral blood flow in the left posterior cerebral artery territory correlated positively with WMS-R and WAIS scores pre- and postoperatively. Postoperative cerebrovascular reserves of the right cerebellum, pons, and vermis were positively associated with visual memory, and postoperative cerebrovascular reserve of the pons was also associated with general memory.

Conclusions: Memory function correlates with executive and intellectual functions in adults with MMD. The FAB, which requires about 10 min to administer, might be useful to screen for memory dysfunction. Memory might be vulnerable to hypoperfusion in the posterior cerebral artery territory among adults with MMD. Postoperative cerebrovascular reserve might help predict memory dysfunction in adults with MMD.

Keywords: Cerebral blood flow; Executive function; Intellectual function; Memory; Moyamoya disease.