Cerebral Amyloid Angiopathy and Dementia: A Systematic Review
Author Information
Author(s): Hannah AD Keage, Roxanna O Carare, Robert P Friedland, Paul G Ince, Seth Love, James A Nicoll, Stephen B Wharton, Roy O Weller, Carol Brayne
Primary Institution: Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge
Hypothesis
Is there a relationship between dementia and the prevalence of cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) in older populations?
Conclusion
CAA prevalence is consistently higher in demented individuals compared to non-demented individuals, indicating its significant role in dementia pathogenesis.
Supporting Evidence
- 55-59% of those with dementia displayed CAA compared to 28-38% of the non-demented.
- 37-43% of the demented displayed severe CAA in contrast to 7-24% of the non-demented.
- Severe CAA may be a better discriminator of clinical dementia than CAA regardless of severity.
Takeaway
This study found that older people with dementia are more likely to have a condition called cerebral amyloid angiopathy, which affects blood vessels in the brain.
Methodology
A systematic review of population-based studies assessing the relationship between CAA and dementia.
Potential Biases
The majority of studies assessed selected samples, which may not reflect the general population at risk.
Limitations
The studies reviewed employed relatively crude measures of CAA and did not account for the distribution of CAA or the presence of inflammation.
Participant Demographics
The studies included older populations, primarily over 80 years of age, with varying proportions of women.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95% CI 2.7–41.0 for severe CAA associated with dementia in one study.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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