Cholinergic Deficiency Hypothesis in Delirium: A Synthesis of Current Evidence
Citation
Hshieh, T. T., T. G. Fong, E. R. Marcantonio, and S. K. Inouye. 2008. “Cholinergic Deficiency Hypothesis in Delirium: A Synthesis of Current Evidence.” The Journals of Gerontology Series A: Biological Sciences and Medical Sciences 63 (7) (July 1): 764–772. doi:10.1093/gerona/63.7.764.Abstract
Deficits in cholinergic function have been postulated to cause delirium and cognitive decline. This review examines current understanding of the cholinergic deficiency hypothesis in delirium by synthesizing evidence on potential pathophysiological pathways. Acetylcholine synthesis involves various precursors, enzymes, and receptors, and dysfunction in these components can lead to delirium. Insults to the brain, like ischemia and immunological stressors, can precipitously alter acetylcholine levels. Imbalances between cholinergic and other neurotransmitter pathways may result in delirium. Furthermore, genetic, enzymatic, and immunological overlaps exist between delirium and dementia related to the cholinergic pathway. Important areas for future research include identifying biomarkers, determining genetic contributions, and evaluating response to cholinergic drugs in delirium. Understanding how the cholinergic pathway relates to delirium may yield innovative approaches in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of this common, costly, and morbid condition.Other Sources
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18693233Terms of Use
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http://nrs.harvard.edu/urn-3:HUL.InstRepos:33750350
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