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Lin K, Sunko D, Wang J, Yang J, Parsey RV, DeLorenzo C. Investigating the relationship between hippocampus/dentate gyrus volume and hypothalamus metabolism in participants with major depressive disorder. Sci Rep 2024; 14:10622. [PMID: 38724691 PMCID: PMC11082185 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-61519-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Reduced hippocampal volume occurs in major depressive disorder (MDD), potentially due to elevated glucocorticoids from an overactivated hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. To examine this in humans, hippocampal volume and hypothalamus (HPA axis) metabolism was quantified in participants with MDD before and after antidepressant treatment. 65 participants (n = 24 males, n = 41 females) with MDD were treated in a double-blind, randomized clinical trial of escitalopram. Participants received simultaneous positron emission tomography (PET)/magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) before and after treatment. Linear mixed models examined the relationship between hippocampus/dentate gyrus volume and hypothalamus metabolism. Chi-squared tests and multivariable logistic regression examined the association between hippocampus/dentate gyrus volume change direction and hypothalamus activity change direction with treatment. Multiple linear regression compared these changes between remitter and non-remitter groups. Covariates included age, sex, and treatment type. No significant linear association was found between hippocampus/dentate gyrus volume and hypothalamus metabolism. 62% (38 of 61) of participants experienced a decrease in hypothalamus metabolism, 43% (27 of 63) of participants demonstrated an increase in hippocampus size (51% [32 of 63] for the dentate gyrus) following treatment. No significant association was found between change in hypothalamus activity and change in hippocampus/dentate gyrus volume, and this association did not vary by sex, medication, or remission status. As this multimodal study, in a cohort of participants on standardized treatment, did not find an association between hypothalamus metabolism and hippocampal volume, it supports a more complex pathway between hippocampus neurogenesis and hypothalamus metabolism changes in response to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Junying Wang
- Department of Applied Mathematics and Statistics, Stony Brook University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jie Yang
- Department of Family, Population & Preventive Medicine, Stony Brook University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ramin V Parsey
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Christine DeLorenzo
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA.
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2
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Long Y, Ren J, Cheng F, Duan Y, Wang B, Sun Y, Sun Q, Bian L, Yi J, Qin Y, Huang R, Guo W, Jiang H, Liu C, Feng X, Qin L. Identifying gray matter alterations in Cushing's disease using machine learning: An interpretable approach. Med Phys 2024. [PMID: 38558279 DOI: 10.1002/mp.17032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cushing's Disease (CD) is a rare clinical syndrome characterized by excessive secretion of adrenocorticotrophic hormone, leading to significant functional and structural brain alterations as observed in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). While traditional statistical analysis has been widely employed to investigate these MRI changes in CD, it has lacked the ability to predict individual-level outcomes. PURPOSE To address this problem, this paper has proposed an interpretable machine learning (ML) framework, including model-level assessment, feature-level assessment, and biology-level assessment to ensure a comprehensive analysis based on structural MRI of CD. METHODS The ML framework has effectively identified the changes in brain regions in the stage of model-level assessment, verified the effectiveness of these altered brain regions to predict CD from normal controls in the stage of feature-level assessment, and carried out a correlation analysis between altered brain regions and clinical symptoms in the stage of biology-level assessment. RESULTS The experimental results of this study have demonstrated that the Insula, Fusiform gyrus, Superior frontal gyrus, Precuneus, and the opercular portion of the Inferior frontal gyrus of CD showed significant alterations in brain regions. Furthermore, our study has revealed significant correlations between clinical symptoms and the frontotemporal lobes, insulin, and olfactory cortex, which also have been confirmed by previous studies. CONCLUSIONS The ML framework proposed in this study exhibits exceptional potential in uncovering the intricate pathophysiological mechanisms underlying CD, with potential applicability in diagnosing other diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Long
- College of Computer, Chengdu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jie Ren
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - FuChao Cheng
- College of Computer, Chengdu University, Chengdu, China
| | - YuMei Duan
- Department of Computer and Software, Chengdu Jincheng College, Chengdu, China
| | - BaoFeng Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuhao Sun
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - QingFang Sun
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui Jin Lu Wan Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - LiuGuan Bian
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - JunChen Yi
- International Foundation ProgramInternational CollegeGuangxi University, Guangxi, China
| | - Ying Qin
- College of Computer, Chengdu University, Chengdu, China
| | | | - WeiTong Guo
- College of Computer, Chengdu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hong Jiang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui Jin Lu Wan Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Chang Liu
- College of Computer, Chengdu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiao Feng
- College of Computer, Chengdu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ling Qin
- College of Computer, Chengdu University, Chengdu, China
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Seckl J. 11β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase and the brain: Not (yet) lost in translation. J Intern Med 2024; 295:20-37. [PMID: 37941106 DOI: 10.1111/joim.13741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases (11β-HSDs) catalyse the conversion of active 11-hydroxy glucocorticoids (cortisol, corticosterone) and their inert 11-keto forms (cortisone, 11-dehydrocorticosterone). They were first reported in the body and brain 70 years ago, but only recently have they become of interest. 11β-HSD2 is a dehydrogenase, potently inactivating glucocorticoids. In the kidney, 11β-HSD2 generates the aldosterone-specificity of intrinsically non-selective mineralocorticoid receptors. 11β-HSD2 also protects the developing foetal brain and body from premature glucocorticoid exposure, which otherwise engenders the programming of neuropsychiatric and cardio-metabolic disease risks. In the adult CNS, 11β-HSD2 is confined to a part of the brain stem where it generates aldosterone-specific central control of salt appetite and perhaps blood pressure. 11β-HSD1 is a reductase, amplifying active glucocorticoid levels within brain cells, notably in the cortex, hippocampus and amygdala, paralleling its metabolic functions in peripheral tissues. 11β-HSD1 is elevated in the ageing rodent and, less certainly, human forebrain. Transgenic models show this rise contributes to age-related cognitive decline, at least in mice. 11β-HSD1 inhibition robustly improves memory in healthy and pathological ageing rodent models and is showing initial promising results in phase II studies of healthy elderly people. Larger trials are needed to confirm and clarify the magnitude of effect and define target populations. The next decade will be crucial in determining how this tale ends - in new treatments or disappointment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Seckl
- Centre for Cardiovascular Sciences, Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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Geuens S, Van Dessel J, Govaarts R, Ikelaar NA, Meijer OC, Kan HE, Niks EH, Goemans N, Lemiere J, Doorenweerd N, De Waele L. Comparison of two corticosteroid regimens on brain volumetrics in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2023; 10:2324-2333. [PMID: 37822297 PMCID: PMC10723242 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.51922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a neuromuscular disorder in which many patients also have neurobehavioral problems. Corticosteroids, the primary pharmacological treatment for DMD, have been shown to affect brain morphology in other conditions, but data in DMD are lacking. This study aimed to investigate the impact of two corticosteroid regimens on brain volumetrics in DMD using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). METHODS In a cross-sectional, two-center study, T1-weighted MRI scans were obtained from three age-matched groups (9-18 years): DMD patients treated daily with deflazacort (DMDd, n = 20, scan site: Leuven), DMD patients treated intermittently with prednisone (DMDi, n = 20, scan site: Leiden), and healthy controls (n = 40, both scan sites). FSL was used to perform voxel-based morphometry analyses and to calculate intracranial, total brain, gray matter, white matter, and cerebrospinal fluid volumes. A MANCOVA was employed to compare global volumetrics between groups, with site as covariate. RESULTS Both patient groups displayed regional differences in gray matter volumes compared to the control group. The DMDd group showed a wider extent of brain regions affected and a greater difference overall. This was substantiated by the global volume quantification: the DMDd group, but not the DMDi group, showed significant differences in gray matter, white matter, and cerebrospinal fluid volumes compared to the control group, after correction for intracranial volume. INTERPRETATION Volumetric differences in the brain are considered part of the DMD phenotype. This study suggests an additional impact of corticosteroid treatment showing a contrast between pronounced alterations seen in patients receiving daily corticosteroid treatment and more subtle differences in those treated intermittently.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam Geuens
- Child NeurologyUniversity Hospitals LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
- Department of Development and RegenerationKU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
| | - Jeroen Van Dessel
- Department of Neurosciences, Center for Developmental PsychiatryUPC‐KU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
| | - Rosanne Govaarts
- C.J. Gorter MRI Center, RadiologyLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenNetherlands
- Duchenne Center NetherlandsLeidenNetherlands
| | - Nadine A. Ikelaar
- Duchenne Center NetherlandsLeidenNetherlands
- Department of NeurologyLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenNetherlands
| | - Onno C. Meijer
- Department of MedicineLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenNetherlands
| | - Hermien E. Kan
- C.J. Gorter MRI Center, RadiologyLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenNetherlands
- Duchenne Center NetherlandsLeidenNetherlands
| | - Erik H. Niks
- Duchenne Center NetherlandsLeidenNetherlands
- Department of NeurologyLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenNetherlands
| | | | - Jurgen Lemiere
- Pediatric Hemato‐OncologyUniversity Hospitals LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
- Department Oncology, Pediatric OncologyKU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
| | - Nathalie Doorenweerd
- C.J. Gorter MRI Center, RadiologyLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenNetherlands
| | - Liesbeth De Waele
- Child NeurologyUniversity Hospitals LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
- Department of Development and RegenerationKU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
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De Alcubierre D, Ferrari D, Mauro G, Isidori AM, Tomlinson JW, Pofi R. Glucocorticoids and cognitive function: a walkthrough in endogenous and exogenous alterations. J Endocrinol Invest 2023; 46:1961-1982. [PMID: 37058223 PMCID: PMC10514174 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-023-02091-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis exerts many actions on the central nervous system (CNS) aside from stress regulation. Glucocorticoids (GCs) play an important role in affecting several cognitive functions through the effects on both glucocorticoid (GR) and mineralocorticoid receptors (MR). In this review, we aim to unravel the spectrum of cognitive dysfunction secondary to derangement of circulating levels of endogenous and exogenous glucocorticoids. METHODS All relevant human prospective and retrospective studies published up to 2022 in PubMed reporting information on HPA disorders, GCs, and cognition were included. RESULTS Cognitive impairment is commonly found in GC-related disorders. The main brain areas affected are the hippocampus and pre-frontal cortex, with memory being the most affected domain. Disease duration, circadian rhythm disruption, circulating GCs levels, and unbalanced MR/GR activation are all risk factors for cognitive decline in these patients, albeit with conflicting data among different conditions. Lack of normalization of cognitive dysfunction after treatment is potentially attributable to GC-dependent structural brain alterations, which can persist even after long-term remission. CONCLUSION The recognition of cognitive deficits in patients with GC-related disorders is challenging, often delayed, or mistaken. Prompt recognition and treatment of underlying disease may be important to avoid a long-lasting impact on GC-sensitive areas of the brain. However, the resolution of hormonal imbalance is not always followed by complete recovery, suggesting irreversible adverse effects on the CNS, for which there are no specific treatments. Further studies are needed to find the mechanisms involved, which may eventually be targeted for treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- D De Alcubierre
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - D Ferrari
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - G Mauro
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - A M Isidori
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - J W Tomlinson
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Churchill Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - R Pofi
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Churchill Hospital, Oxford, UK.
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Li L, Ding G, Zhang L, Luo H, Davoodi-Bojd E, Li Q, Chopp M, Zhang ZG, Jiang Q. Glymphatic transport is reduced in rats with spontaneous pituitary tumor. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1189614. [PMID: 37601793 PMCID: PMC10436560 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1189614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and objective Pituitary tumor in patients induces adverse alterations in the brain, accompanied by cognitive deficits. Dysfunction of glymphatic waste clearance results in accumulation of neurotoxic products within the brain, leading to cognitive impairment. However, the status of glymphatic function in the brain with pituitary tumor is unknown. Using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and an advanced mathematical modeling, we investigated the changes of glymphatic transport in the rats carrying spontaneous pituitary tumor. Methods Rats (22-24 months, female, Wistar) with and without pituitary tumor (n = 7/per group) underwent the identical experimental protocol. MRI measurements, including T2-weighted imaging and dynamic 3D T1-weighted imaging with intracisternal administration of contrast agent, were performed on each animal. The contrast-induced enhancement in the circle of Willis and in the glymphatic influx nodes were observed on the dynamic images and verified with time-signal-curves (TSCs). Model-derived parameters of infusion rate and clearance rate that characterize the kinetics of glymphatic tracer transport were evaluated in multiple representative brain regions. Results Our imaging data demonstrated a higher incidence of partially enhanced circle of Willis (86 vs. 14%; p < 0.033) and a lower incidence of enhancement in glymphatic influx nodes of pituitary (71 vs. 100%) and pineal (57 vs. 86%) recesses in the rats with pituitary tumor than in the rats with normal appearance of pituitary gland, indicating an intensification of impaired peri-vascular pathway and impeded glymphatic transport due to the presence of pituitary tumor. Consistently, our kinetic modeling and regional cerebral tissue quantification revealed significantly lower infusion and clearance rates in all examined regions in rats with spontaneous pituitary tumor than in non-tumor rats, representing a suppressed glymphatic transport in the brain with pituitary tumor. Conclusion Our study demonstrates the compromised glymphatic transport in the rat brain with spontaneous pituitary tumor. The reduced efficiency in cerebral waste clearance increases the risk for neurodegeneration in the brain that may underlie the cognitive impairment commonly seen in patients with pituitary tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lian Li
- Department of Neurology, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, MI, United States
| | - Guangliang Ding
- Department of Neurology, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, MI, United States
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, MI, United States
| | - Hao Luo
- Department of Neurology, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, MI, United States
| | | | - Qingjiang Li
- Department of Neurology, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, MI, United States
| | - Michael Chopp
- Department of Neurology, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, MI, United States
- Department of Physics, Oakland University, Rochester, MI, United States
| | - Zheng Gang Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, MI, United States
| | - Quan Jiang
- Department of Neurology, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, MI, United States
- Department of Physics, Oakland University, Rochester, MI, United States
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Jiang H, Li Z, Sun Y, Ren J, Yan F, Sun Q, Wei H, Bian L. Irreversible Alterations of Susceptibility in Cushing's Disease: A Longitudinal QSM Study. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2023:7018794. [PMID: 36722202 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Chronic exposure to hypercortisolism is associated with accelerated aging and neurodegenerative diseases, while Cushing's disease (CD) is the most common form of endogenous hypercortisolism exposure. This study aimed to assess longitudinal susceptibility changes in CD using quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) before and after resolution of hypercortisolism. METHODS In this study, twenty-four CD patients and 24 healthy controls underwent magnetic resonance imaging with QSM. All CD patients underwent MRI scans before and after the curative operation. RESULTS After resolution of hypercortisolism, irreversibly altered susceptibility values were found in the anterior cingulate cortex, frontal lobe, caudate and red nucleus. These alterations were significantly correlated with the changes in gray matter/white matter volumes and clinical features. Additionally, decrease susceptibility was found in several regions in CD patients. CONCLUSION Chronic exposure to hypercortisolism may be related to susceptibility alterations and significantly correlated with altered brain volumes and clinical features. in CD patients. The decrease of susceptibility might suggest the involvement of the calcium deregulation in these alterations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hong Jiang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui Jin Lu Wan Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Zhenghao Li
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuhao Sun
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Jie Ren
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Fuhua Yan
- Department of Radiology, Rui Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Qingfang Sun
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui Jin Lu Wan Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Hongjiang Wei
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Liuguan Bian
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
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Papakokkinou E, Ragnarsson O. Functional brain alterations in Cushing's syndrome. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1163482. [PMID: 37152946 PMCID: PMC10160675 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1163482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Cognitive impairment and affective disorders are common in patients with Cushing's syndrome (CS). In fact, as an effect of prolonged cortisol excess on the brain, patients with CS often have memory problems, concentration difficulties, impaired attention and executive function, that are not always reversible following successful treatment. Neuroimaging is essential for understanding the deleterious effects of hypercortisolism on the brain. In CS, structural alterations have been observed, including reduction of hippocampal volume, amygdala and the prefrontal cortex. The aim of this article is to summarize results from studies that have used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to study functional brain alterations in patients with CS. In these studies, alterations in brain areas and networks essential for cognitive function, emotional processing, and executive function have been observed, both in patients with active CS as well as following treatment. Nevertheless, longitudinal studies with a comprehensive evaluation of functional brain alterations and neurocognitive evaluation are still needed to determine whether the apparent deleterious effects of hypercortisolism on the brain are reversible or not.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleni Papakokkinou
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Medicine at Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Endocrinology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
- *Correspondence: Eleni Papakokkinou,
| | - Oskar Ragnarsson
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Medicine at Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Endocrinology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Wallenberg Center for Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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Jiang H, Li Z, Yang W, Sun Y, Yan F, Sun Q, Wei H, Bian L. Region-specific disturbed iron redistribution in Cushing's disease measured by magnetic resonance imaging-based quantitative susceptibility mapping. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2022; 97:81-90. [PMID: 35170794 DOI: 10.1111/cen.14692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Cushing's disease (CD) is most common endogenous Cushing's syndrome. This study aimed to assess iron alternations in deep grey matter in CD. DESIGN A cross-sectional study was performed. PATIENTS In this study, 48 active CD patients, 39 remitted CD patients and 52 healthy control (HC) subjects underwent magnetic resonance imaging. MEASUREMENTS Quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM). RESULTS Decreased susceptibility values were found in the bilateral putamen, caudate, red nucleus, subthalamic nucleus and pulvinar nuclei of the thalamus (TL-PLV) in active and remitted patients with CD compared with HCs. Interestingly, in remitted patients with CD, altered susceptibility values were significantly correlated with altered brain volumes in TL-PLV, while TL-PLV may play an essential role as a general regulatory hub for adaptive and flexible cognition. CONCLUSION Chronic exposure to hypercortisolism may be related to iron distribution and significantly correlated with altered brain volumes and clinical features in patients with CD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Jiang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui Jin Lu Wan Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhenghao Li
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenjie Yang
- Department of Radiology, Rui Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuhao Sun
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Fuhua Yan
- Department of Radiology, Rui Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qingfang Sun
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui Jin Lu Wan Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hongjiang Wei
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Medical Robotics, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Liuguan Bian
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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10
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Holmberg M, Malmgren H, Heckemann RA, Johansson B, Klasson N, Olsson E, Skau S, Starck G, Filipsson Nyström H. A Longitudinal Study of Medial Temporal Lobe Volumes in Graves Disease. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2022; 107:1040-1052. [PMID: 34752624 PMCID: PMC8947220 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgab808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Neuropsychiatric symptoms are common features of Graves disease (GD) in hyperthyroidism and after treatment. The mechanism behind these symptoms is unknown, but reduced hippocampal volumes have been observed in association with increased thyroid hormone levels. OBJECTIVE This work aimed at investigating GD influence on regional medial temporal lobe (MTL) volumes. METHODS Sixty-two women with newly diagnosed GD underwent assessment including magnetic resonance (MR) imaging in hyperthyroidism and 48 of them were followed up after a mean of 16.4 ± 4.2 SD months of treatment. Matched thyroid-healthy controls were also assessed twice at a 15-month interval. MR images were automatically segmented using multiatlas propagation with enhanced registration. Regional medial temporal lobe (MTL) volumes for amygdalae and hippocampi were compared with clinical data and data from symptom questionnaires and neuropsychological tests. RESULTS Patients had smaller MTL regions than controls at inclusion. At follow-up, all 4 MTL regions had increased volumes and only the volume of the left amygdala remained reduced compared to controls. There were significant correlations between the level of thyrotropin receptor antibodies (TRAb) and MTL volumes at inclusion and also between the longitudinal difference in the levels of free 3,5,3'-triiodothyronine and TRAb and the difference in MTL volumes. There were no significant correlations between symptoms or test scores and any of the 4 MTL volumes. CONCLUSION Dynamic alterations in the amygdalae and hippocampi in GD reflect a previously unknown level of brain involvement both in the hyperthyroid state of the condition and after treatment. The clinical significance, as well as the mechanisms behind these novel findings, warrant further study of the neurological consequences of GD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mats Holmberg
- ANOVA, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden
- Correspondence: Mats Holmberg, PhD, ANOVA, Karolinska University Hospital, Norra Stationsgatan 69, SE-17176 Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Helge Malmgren
- Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden
- MedTech West at University of Gothenburg and Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Göteborg, Sweden
| | - Rolf A Heckemann
- MedTech West at University of Gothenburg and Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Göteborg, Sweden
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, Department of Medical Radiation Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden
| | - Birgitta Johansson
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden
| | - Niklas Klasson
- MedTech West at University of Gothenburg and Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Göteborg, Sweden
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden
| | - Erik Olsson
- Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden
| | - Simon Skau
- MedTech West at University of Gothenburg and Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Göteborg, Sweden
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden
| | - Göran Starck
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, Department of Medical Radiation Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Göteborg, Sweden
| | - Helena Filipsson Nyström
- Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden
- Department of Endocrinology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Göteborg, Sweden
- Wallenberg Center for Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden
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11
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Jiang H, Yang W, Sun Q, Liu C, Bian L. Trends in regional morphological changes in the brain after the resolution of hypercortisolism in Cushing's disease: a complex phenomenon, not mere partial reversibility. Endocr Connect 2021; 10:1377-1386. [PMID: 34596577 PMCID: PMC8558890 DOI: 10.1530/ec-21-0385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The adverse effects of hypercortisolism on the human brain have been highlighted in previous studies of Cushing's disease (CD). However, the relative alterations in regional hypercortisolism in the brain remain unclear. Thus, we investigated regional volumetric alterations in CD patients. We also analyzed the associations between these volumetric changes and clinical characteristics. The study participants comprised of active CD (n = 60), short-term-remitted CD (n = 28), and long-term-remitted CD (n = 32) patients as well as healthy control subjects (n = 66). Gray matter volumes (GMVs) were measured via voxel-based morphometry. The GMVs of substructures were defined using the automated anatomical labeling (AAL) atlas. Trends toward normalization in GMV were found in most brain substructures of CD patients. Different trends, including enlarged, irreversible, and unaffected, were observed in the other subregions, such as the amygdala, thalamus, and caudate. Morphological changes in GMVs after the resolution of hypercortisolism are a complex phenomenon; the characteristics of these changes significantly differ within the brain substructures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Jiang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui-Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui-Jin Lu-Wan Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - WenJie Yang
- Department of Radiology, Rui-Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - QingFang Sun
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui-Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui-Jin Lu-Wan Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Chang Liu
- The Clinical Hospital of Chengdu Brain Science Institute, MOE Key Lab for Neuroinformation, Center for Information in Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
- College of Information Technology and Engineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu, China
- College of Computer Science, Sichuan Normal University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - LiuGuan Bian
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rui-Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Correspondence should be addressed to L Bian:
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12
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Barton DJ, Kumar RG, Schuster AA, Juengst SB, Oh BM, Wagner AK. Acute Cortisol Profile Associations With Cognitive Impairment After Severe Traumatic Brain Injury. Neurorehabil Neural Repair 2021; 35:1088-1099. [PMID: 34689657 DOI: 10.1177/15459683211048771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cognitive impairments commonly occur after traumatic brain injury (TBI) and affect daily functioning. Cortisol levels, which are elevated during acute hospitalization for most individuals after severe TBI, can influence cognition, but this association has not been studied previously in TBI. OBJECTIVE We hypothesized that serum and cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) cortisol trajectories over days 0-5 post-injury are associated with cognition 6-month post-injury. METHODS We examined 94 participants with severe TBI, collected acute serum and/or CSF samples over days 0-5 post-injury, and compared cortisol levels to those in 17 healthy controls. N = 88 participants had serum, and n = 84 had CSF samples available for cortisol measurement and had neuropsychological testing 6 months post-injury. Group based trajectory analysis (TRAJ) was used to generate temporal serum and CSF cortisol profiles which were examined for associations with neuropsychological performance. We used linear regression to examine relationships between cortisol TRAJ groups and both overall and domain-specific cognition. RESULTS TRAJ analysis identified a high group and a decliner group for serum and a high group and low group for CSF cortisol. Multivariable analysis showed serum cortisol TRAJ group was associated with overall cognitive composites scores (P = .024) and with executive function (P = .039) and verbal fluency (P = .029) domain scores. CSF cortisol TRAJ group was associated with overall cognitive composite scores (P = .021) and domain scores for executive function (P = .041), verbal fluency (P = .031), and attention (P = .034). CONCLUSIONS High acute cortisol trajectories are associated with poorer cognition 6 months post-TBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Barton
- Department of Emergency Medicine, 480740University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Raj G Kumar
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, 171669University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Alexandria A Schuster
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, 171669University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Shannon B Juengst
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, TX, USA.,Department of Applied Clinical Research, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Byung-Mo Oh
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, KR
| | - Amy K Wagner
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, 171669University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Safar Center for Resuscitation Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Department of Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Center for Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Clinical and Translational Science Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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13
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Cui M, Zhou T, Feng S, Liu X, Wang F, Zhang Y, Yu X. Altered microstructural pattern of white matter in Cushing's disease identified by automated fiber quantification. Neuroimage Clin 2021; 31:102770. [PMID: 34332193 PMCID: PMC8339293 DOI: 10.1016/j.nicl.2021.102770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 06/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
A growing body of evidence suggests that altered brain structure plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of neuropsychological abnormalities induced by hypercortisolism in patients with Cushing's disease. While most studies mainly focus on gray matter, white matter structure has been largely overlooked. In the current study, we conducted a cross-sectional diffusion tensor imaging study on 58 patients with Cushing's disease and 54 matched healthy individuals to profile the microstructural pattern using automated fiber quantification and investigate its association with neuroendocrine and neuropsychological deficits. The study revealed that microstructural pattern showed a widespread mean diffusivity, radial diffusivity increase, fractional anisotropy decrease and partial axial diffusivity increase among tracts notably in corpus callosum forceps, inferior fronto-occipital fasciculus, inferior longitudinal fasciculus, superior longitudinal fasciculus, uncinate fasciculus and arcuate fasciculus, while within the same tract abnormalities localized to specific positions. Moreover, compromised microstructural pattern of white matter in specific tracts and locations along the trajectory were associated with ACTH and cortisol concentration and cognitive decline in patients with Cushing's disease. Collectively, our study elucidates the form of white matter pathology induced by hypercortisolism and its association with cognitive decline which may provide further targets for early identification and intervention of Cushing's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengchu Cui
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, PR China; Department of Neurosurgery, The First Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, PR China
| | - Tao Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, PR China
| | - Shiyu Feng
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, PR China
| | - Xinyun Liu
- Department of Radiology, The First Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, PR China
| | - Fuyu Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, PR China
| | - Yanyang Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, PR China.
| | - Xinguang Yu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, PR China.
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14
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Tselebis A, Zoumakis E, Ilias I. Dream Recall/Affect and the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis. Clocks Sleep 2021; 3:403-8. [PMID: 34449575 DOI: 10.3390/clockssleep3030027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
In this concise review, we present an overview of research on dream recall/affect and of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, discussing caveats regarding the action of hormones of the HPA axis (mainly cortisol and its free form, cortisol-binding globulin and glucocorticoid receptors). We present results of studies regarding dream recall/affect and the HPA axis under physiological (such as waking) or pathological conditions (such as in Cushing’s syndrome or stressful situations). Finally, we try to integrate the effect of the current COVID-19 situation with dream recall/affect vis-à-vis the HPA axis.
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15
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Abstract
Treatment for critical illness typically focuses on a patient's short-term physical recovery; however, recent work has broadened our understanding of the long-term implications of illness and treatment strategies. In particular, survivors of critical illness have significantly elevated risk of developing lasting cognitive impairment and psychiatric disorders. In this review, we examine the role of endogenous and exogenous glucocorticoids in neuropsychiatric outcomes following critical illness. Illness is marked by acute elevation of free cortisol and adrenocorticotropic hormone suppression, which typically normalize after recovery; however, prolonged dysregulation can sometimes occur. High glucocorticoid levels can cause lasting alterations to the plasticity and structural integrity of the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex, and this mechanism may plausibly contribute to impaired memory and cognition in critical illness survivors, though specific evidence is lacking. Glucocorticoids may also exacerbate inflammation-associated neural damage. Conversely, current evidence indicates that glucocorticoids during illness may protect against the development of post-traumatic stress disorder. We propose future directions for research in this field, including determining the role of persistent glucocorticoid elevations after illness in neuropsychiatric outcomes, the role of systemic vs neuroinflammation, and probing unexplored lines of investigation on the role of mineralocorticoid receptors and the gut-brain axis. Progress toward personalized medicine in this area has the potential to produce tangible improvements to the lives patients after a critical illness, including Coronavirus Disease 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice R Hill
- Undergraduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Michigan Neuroscience Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Joanna L Spencer-Segal
- Michigan Neuroscience Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Deparment of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Correspondence: Joanna L. Spencer-Segal, MD, PhD, Michigan Neuroscience Institute, 205 Zina Pitcher Place, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
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16
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Piasecka M, Papakokkinou E, Valassi E, Santos A, Webb SM, de Vries F, Pereira AM, Ragnarsson O. Psychiatric and neurocognitive consequences of endogenous hypercortisolism. J Intern Med 2020; 288:168-182. [PMID: 32181937 DOI: 10.1111/joim.13056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Revised: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Psychiatric and neurocognitive symptoms due to hypercortisolism were already described by Harvey Cushing in his original paper on patients with Cushing's syndrome (CS). Nowadays, it is well known that psychiatric and cognitive complaints are two of the most common, and most distressing, symptoms in patients with CS. Psychiatric symptoms are indeed a major clinical manifestation of CS. The most commonly observed psychiatric conditions are depression and anxiety, whilst mania and psychosis are less common. Several domains of cognitive function are impaired at diagnosis, including episodic and working memory, executive function and attention. Following treatment, one-fourth of the patients still experience depressed mood, and the cognitive impairments are only partially restored. Consequently, quality of life in patients with CS is severely and persistently affected. Neuroimaging studies have also illustrated the deleterious effects of hypercortisolism on the brain by demonstrating reduced grey matter volumes and cortical thickness, altered resting-state functional responses and during cognitive tasks, as well as widespread reduced white matter integrity, especially in structures important for cognitive function and emotional processing, both before and after successful abrogation of hypercortisolism. In this paper, we summarize the current knowledge on the psychiatric and neurocognitive consequences of hypercortisolism in patients with CS, both before, and after successful treatment. In addition, we review the structural and functional brain abnormalities associated with hypercortisolism and discuss the influence of these factors on quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Piasecka
- From the, Institute of Medicine at Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Department of Endocrinology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - E Papakokkinou
- From the, Institute of Medicine at Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Department of Endocrinology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - E Valassi
- IIB-Sant Pau and Department of Endocrinology/Medicine, Hospital Sant Pau, Univ Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBER-ER, Unidad 747), ISCIII, Barcelona, Spain
| | - A Santos
- IIB-Sant Pau and Department of Endocrinology/Medicine, Hospital Sant Pau, Univ Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBER-ER, Unidad 747), ISCIII, Barcelona, Spain
| | - S M Webb
- IIB-Sant Pau and Department of Endocrinology/Medicine, Hospital Sant Pau, Univ Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBER-ER, Unidad 747), ISCIII, Barcelona, Spain
| | - F de Vries
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Center for Endocrine Tumours Leiden, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - A M Pereira
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Center for Endocrine Tumours Leiden, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - O Ragnarsson
- From the, Institute of Medicine at Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Department of Endocrinology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
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