Plasma Amyloid β42 and Amyloid β40 Levels Are Associated With Early Cognitive Dysfunction After Cardiac Surgery

Abstract

Background: Decreased cognitive function associated with coronary artery bypass graft surgery is common. These deficits may be similar to the cognitive dysfunction seen in the spectrum of mild cognitive impairment to Alzheimer's disease, which are believed to result from the accumulation of amyloid beta (Aβ) peptide in the brain. We measured cognition both before and after coronary artery bypass graft surgery and assayed Aβ levels to investigate whether the cognitive dysfunction of cardiac surgery was associated with Aβ levels. Methods: The plasma of 332 patients, who had undergone neuropsychological testing before and 3 and 12 months after coronary artery bypass graft surgery, was analyzed ..