Abstract
Background: Cognitive decline in EGPA is rare. 30% of patients with small vessel vasculitis may have subclinical neuropsychological impairment1. Data is limited regarding EGPA alone.
Aim: To evaluate prevalence of cognitive impairment in patients with EGPA managed at a regional severe asthma centre in South Manchester, England.
Methods: Cases identified where diagnosis of EGPA made by a specialist in eosinophilic vasculitis. Clinical consultations reviewed for subjective evidence of disease-related cognitive decline.
Results: N = 16, 11 male, mean age 53. 25% had antibodies to myeloperoxidase (MPO). Cognitive impairment was present in 37.5% (6). Memory loss was described in all 6, poor concentration in 2, slowed speech in 1. 4 of 6 had magnetic resonance (MR) cerebral angiogram and 2 standard MR brain. Frontal white matter hyperintensities were seen on standard MR in 2. All other brain imaging was normal. 5 of 6 were reviewed by a neurologist.
Discussion: Evaluation of our service indicates that disease-related cognitive impairment is more prevalent than literature suggests. Further objective evidence is required. This reinforces the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in EGPA.
Reference:Frequency and patterns of subclinical cognitive impairment in patients with ANCA-associated small vessel vasculitides. Mattioli et al. J Neurol Sci. 2002.
- Copyright ©the authors 2016
