CSF monoamine metabolites in old age dementias

Mol Chem Neuropathol. 1992 Feb-Apr;16(1-2):143-57. doi: 10.1007/BF03159966.

Abstract

Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) levels of the main metabolites of monoamines (MHPG, 5-HIAA, and HVA) were measured in patients with early onset (AD) and late-onset (SDAT) Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia (VD), and elderly controls. Psychobehavioral assessment was carried out by means of MMSE and GBS. Mean MHPG levels did not differ from controls; 5-HIAA was lower in VD when compared to both controls and SDAT. HVA was decreased in AD, SDAT, and VD with respect to controls. Significant correlations between HVA and psycho-behavioral parameters were observed in SDAT and VD groups, whereas no relationship was documented in AD. The SDAT group was divided in SDAT-A (age at onset: greater than 65 less than or equal to 80 yr) and SDAT-B (age at onset: greater than 80 yr). SDAT-A had significantly lower CSF HVA values than SDAT-B (165 +/- 64 vs 235.7 +/- 85). SDAT-B HVA levels were similar to those observed in controls. Correlation analysis between HVA and neuropsychological variables was significant in SDAT-A, but not in SDAT-B. These results might support the evidence of SDAT heterogeneity.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Alzheimer Disease / cerebrospinal fluid*
  • Dementia / cerebrospinal fluid*
  • Dementia, Vascular / cerebrospinal fluid*
  • Homovanillic Acid / cerebrospinal fluid*
  • Humans
  • Hydroxyindoleacetic Acid / cerebrospinal fluid*
  • Intervertebral Disc Displacement / cerebrospinal fluid
  • Methoxyhydroxyphenylglycol / cerebrospinal fluid*
  • Middle Aged
  • Psychological Tests

Substances

  • Methoxyhydroxyphenylglycol
  • Hydroxyindoleacetic Acid
  • Homovanillic Acid