Chronic viral infections may add to cognitive decline in elderly — 5 insights

Some chronic viral infections may contribute to cognitive complications as adults age, according to a University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and Baltimore-based Johns Hopkins University study. Vishwajit Nimgaonkar, MD, psychiatry professor at Pittsburgh School of Medicine, lead the study.

The researchers studied more than 1,000 people 64 years or older for five years. Alzheimer's Diseases and Associated Disorders published the findings.

Here are five insights:

1. The researchers found a link between exposure to cytomegalovirus and herpes simplex viruses 1 and 2 and decreased cognitive function.

2. CVM, HSV-2 or toxoplasma exposure linked to various aspects of cognitive decline in older people.

3. These infections are common and treatable, so there are many avenues for prevention.

4. The researchers now want to investigate whether certain peoples' brains are more at risk of chronic viral infection.

5. "It's possible that these viruses, which can linger in the body after acute infection, are triggering some neurotoxic effects," said Dr. Nimgaonkar.

Copyright © 2024 Becker's Healthcare. All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policy. Cookie Policy. Linking and Reprinting Policy.

 


Patient Safety Tools & Resources Database

Featured Webinars

Featured Whitepapers

Featured Podcast