Hippocampal atrophy is associated with subjective memory decline: The PATH Through Life study

Am J Geriatr Psychiatry. 2015 May;23(5):446-55. doi: 10.1016/j.jagp.2014.07.009. Epub 2014 Aug 7.

Abstract

Objective: To investigate whether subjective memory decline (SMD) in cognitively healthy individuals is associated with hippocampal atrophy.

Methods: Multiple regression analyses assessing the relationship between hippocampal atrophy over 4 years and SMD at baseline and follow-up in 305 cognitively healthy individuals aged 60-64 years free from dementia, mild cognitive impairment, and other neurological disorders.

Results: SMD at baseline was not a significant predictor of hippocampal atrophy. However, SMD at follow-up was associated with greater hippocampal atrophy. Associations were reduced but remained significant after controlling for anxiety and depression symptomatology.

Conclusion: Hippocampal atrophy was associated with incident/persisting SMD and this association was not, or only partly, explained by anxiety and depression symptomatology. These results are consistent with a biological origin to subjective memory decline. SMD should be included in screening and neuropsychological batteries.

Keywords: APOE ε4; Cognitive decline; MRI; longitudinal.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Atrophy
  • Cognition / physiology
  • Female
  • Hippocampus / pathology*
  • Humans
  • Intelligence Tests
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods
  • Male
  • Memory / physiology
  • Memory Disorders* / diagnosis
  • Memory Disorders* / pathology
  • Memory Disorders* / psychology
  • Mental Competency*
  • Middle Aged
  • Neuropsychological Tests
  • Predictive Value of Tests
  • Prognosis
  • Self Report