An Assessment of Cognitive Dysfunction among COPD Patients

Abstract

Introduction: The brain, in particular, may be vulnerable to the systemic effects of COPD. Cognitive dysfunction is associated with increased mortality and disability; however, it remains poorly understood in COPD. The hypoxemia seen in some patients with COPD seems to be a crucial factor for cognitive impairment, because it affects the oxygen dependent enzymes that are important in the synthesis of neurotransmitters such as acetylcholine. Methods and Material: 40 COPD patients were subjected to SMMSE questionnaire, and then statistical analysis were conducted between their FEV1 and SMMSE questionnaire score, and between MMRC dyspnea scale score and SMMSE score. Results: Mild cognitive impairment was found in COPD patients and there was significant positive correlation was found between SMMSE score with FEV1, and significant negative correlation between SMMSE score and MMRC score. Conclusion: Cognitive impairment was significantly correlated with severity of disease in COPD patients. For early identification of cognitive dysfunction of COPD patients by SMMSE will defiantly helpful to physician to assess the cognitive function.