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Ghanem A, Berry DS, Cosentino S, Faust PL, Louis ED. Subjective Sleep Disturbance and Lewy Pathology: Data from a Cohort of Essential Tremor Brain Donors. NEURODEGENER DIS 2024:1-10. [PMID: 38861955 DOI: 10.1159/000539032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Sleep disturbances have been associated with essential tremor (ET). However, their pathophysiological underpinnings remain unknown. In this exploratory study, we examined the association between subjective sleep disturbances and the presence of Lewy pathology (LP) on postmortem brain examination in ET cases. METHODS Fifty-two ET cases enrolled in a prospective, longitudinal study were assessed over an average period of 42 months. Cases completed the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), which yields seven component scores (e.g., sleep quality, sleep latency). For each component score, we calculated the difference between the last score and the baseline score. Brains were harvested at death. Each had a complete neuropathological assessment, including extensive α-synuclein immunostaining. We examined the associations between baseline PSQI scores and the change in PSQI scores (last - first), and LP on postmortem brain examination. RESULTS ET cases had a mean baseline age of 87.1 ± 4.8 years. LP was observed in 12 (23.1%) of 52 cases; in 7 of these 12, LP was observed in the locus coeruleus (LC). Change in time needed to fall asleep (last - first sleep latency component score) was associated with presence of LP on postmortem brain examination - greater increase in sleep latency was associated with higher odds of LP (odds ratio = 2.98, p = 0.02). The greatest increase in sleep latency was observed in cases with LP in the LC (p = 0.04). CONCLUSION In ET cases, increases in sleep latency over time could be a marker of underlying LP, especially in the LC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Ghanem
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Diane S Berry
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Stephanie Cosentino
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Neurology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Phyllis L Faust
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center and the New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, New York, USA
| | - Elan D Louis
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
- Peter O'Donnell Jr. Brain Institute, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
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Angelini L, Paparella G, Cannavacciuolo A, Costa D, Birreci D, De Riggi M, Passaretti M, Colella D, Guerra A, Berardelli A, Bologna M. Clinical and kinematic characterization of parkinsonian soft signs in essential tremor. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2024:10.1007/s00702-024-02784-0. [PMID: 38744708 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-024-02784-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Subtle parkinsonian signs, i.e., rest tremor and bradykinesia, are considered soft signs for defining essential tremor (ET) plus. OBJECTIVES Our study aimed to further characterize subtle parkinsonian signs in a relatively large sample of ET patients from a clinical and neurophysiological perspective. METHODS We employed clinical scales and kinematic techniques to assess a sample of 82 ET patients. Eighty healthy controls matched for gender and age were also included. The primary focus of our study was to conduct a comparative analysis of ET patients (without any soft signs) and ET-plus patients with rest tremor and/or bradykinesia. Additionally, we investigated the asymmetry and side concordance of these soft signs. RESULTS In ET-plus patients with parkinsonian soft signs (56.10% of the sample), rest tremor was clinically observed in 41.30% of cases, bradykinesia in 30.43%, and rest tremor plus bradykinesia in 28.26%. Patients with rest tremor had more severe and widespread action tremor than other patients. Furthermore, we observed a positive correlation between the amplitude of action and rest tremor. Most ET-plus patients had an asymmetry of rest tremor and bradykinesia. There was no side concordance between these soft signs, as confirmed through both clinical examination and kinematic evaluation. CONCLUSIONS Rest tremor and bradykinesia are frequently observed in ET and are often asymmetric but not concordant. Our findings provide a better insight into the phenomenology of ET and suggest that the parkinsonian soft signs (rest tremor and bradykinesia) in ET-plus may originate from distinct pathophysiological mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Angelini
- IRCCS Neuromed, Via Atinense, 18, Pozzilli (IS), 86077, Italy
| | - Giulia Paparella
- IRCCS Neuromed, Via Atinense, 18, Pozzilli (IS), 86077, Italy
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale dell'Università, 30, Rome, 00185, Italy
| | | | - Davide Costa
- IRCCS Neuromed, Via Atinense, 18, Pozzilli (IS), 86077, Italy
| | - Daniele Birreci
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale dell'Università, 30, Rome, 00185, Italy
| | - Martina De Riggi
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale dell'Università, 30, Rome, 00185, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Passaretti
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale dell'Università, 30, Rome, 00185, Italy
| | - Donato Colella
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale dell'Università, 30, Rome, 00185, Italy
| | - Andrea Guerra
- Parkinson and Movement Disorders Unit, Study Center on Neurodegeneration (CESNE), Department of Neuroscience, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- Padova Neuroscience Center (PNC), University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Alfredo Berardelli
- IRCCS Neuromed, Via Atinense, 18, Pozzilli (IS), 86077, Italy
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale dell'Università, 30, Rome, 00185, Italy
| | - Matteo Bologna
- IRCCS Neuromed, Via Atinense, 18, Pozzilli (IS), 86077, Italy.
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale dell'Università, 30, Rome, 00185, Italy.
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Bolton TAW, Van De Ville D, Régis J, Witjas T, Girard N, Levivier M, Tuleasca C. Dynamic functional changes upon thalamotomy in essential tremor depend on baseline brain morphometry. Sci Rep 2024; 14:2605. [PMID: 38297028 PMCID: PMC10831051 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-52410-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Patients with drug-resistant essential tremor (ET) may undergo Gamma Knife stereotactic radiosurgical thalamotomy (SRS-T), where the ventro-intermediate nucleus of the thalamus (Vim) is lesioned by focused beams of gamma radiations to induce clinical improvement. Here, we studied SRS-T impacts on left Vim dynamic functional connectivity (dFC, n = 23 ET patients scanned before and 1 year after intervention), and on surface-based morphometric brain features (n = 34 patients, including those from dFC analysis). In matched healthy controls (HCs), three dFC states were extracted from resting-state functional MRI data. In ET patients, state 1 spatial stability increased upon SRS-T (F1,22 = 19.13, p = 0.004). More frequent expression of state 3 over state 1 before SRS-T correlated with greater clinical recovery in a way that depended on the MR signature volume (t6 = 4.6, p = 0.004). Lower pre-intervention spatial variability in state 3 expression also did (t6 = - 4.24, p = 0.005) and interacted with the presence of familial ET so that these patients improved less (t6 = 4.14, p = 0.006). ET morphometric profiles showed significantly lower similarity to HCs in 13 regions upon SRS-T (z ≤ - 3.66, p ≤ 0.022), and a joint analysis revealed that before thalamotomy, morphometric similarity and states 2/3 mean spatial similarity to HCs were anticorrelated, a relationship that disappeared upon SRS-T (z ≥ 4.39, p < 0.001). Our results show that left Vim functional dynamics directly relates to upper limb tremor lowering upon intervention, while morphometry instead has a supporting role in reshaping such dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas A W Bolton
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Neurosurgery Service and Gamma Knife Center, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, 1011, Lausanne, Switzerland.
- Department of Radiology, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne (CHUV-UNIL), 1011, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Dimitri Van De Ville
- Neuro-X Institute, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, 1202, Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Radiology and Medical Informatics, University of Geneva, 1202, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Jean Régis
- Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery Service and Gamma Knife Unit, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de la Timone, 13005, Marseille, France
| | - Tatiana Witjas
- Neurology Department, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de la Timone, 13005, Marseille, France
| | - Nadine Girard
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Neuroradiology, Centre de Résonance Magnétique Biologique et Médicale, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de la Timone, 13005, Marseille, France
| | - Marc Levivier
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Neurosurgery Service and Gamma Knife Center, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, 1011, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine (FBM), University of Lausanne (UNIL), 1015, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Constantin Tuleasca
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Neurosurgery Service and Gamma Knife Center, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, 1011, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine (FBM), University of Lausanne (UNIL), 1015, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Signal Processing Laboratory (LTS 5), Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, 1015, Lausanne, Switzerland
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Vehar JV, Duff K, Rahimpour S, Dunn D, Ballard DJ, Zorn MS, Moretti P, Rolston J. The cognitive profile of essential tremor on the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status. Clin Neuropsychol 2024; 38:150-163. [PMID: 36974932 DOI: 10.1080/13854046.2023.2192420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Objective: Essential tremor (ET), while defined by progressive motor symptoms, is increasingly associated with cognitive impairments (e.g. attention, memory, and executive functions). This study characterizes the cognitive profile of individuals with ET on the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS), a commonly-used neuropsychological screening measure. Method: Seventy-seven individuals (mean age: 70.6, 34% female) diagnosed with ET and being considered for surgical/procedural intervention were recruited from a Movement Disorders Clinic. All participants completed the RBANS, Grooved Pegboard Test (GPB), and Fahn, Tolosa, Marin Tremor Scale (FTMTS) in the clinical evaluation of their tremor. Results: One-sample t-tests found Immediate Memory, Language, Attention, and Total Scale Index scores to be significantly lower than the expected population mean (p < .05). List Learning, Semantic Fluency, Coding, and List Recall subtests were significantly lower and Picture Naming was significantly higher than the expected population mean (p < .05). GPB scores were correlated with the Attention Index as well as List Learning and Coding subtests. FTMTS Severity was correlated with the Coding subtest and FTMTS Disability was correlated with the Figure Recall subtest. Conclusions: Results support prior literature indicating cognitive weaknesses in those with ET. Individuals with ET had poorer global cognitive abilities, with specific decrements in Immediate Memory, Attention, and Language. Notably, the Attention Index and Coding subtest were most affected by motor functioning. Cognitive screening measures, like the RBANS, can efficiently identify strengths and weaknesses in individuals with ET seeking surgical/procedural interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia V Vehar
- Department of Psychology, University of Utah, UT, USA
| | - Kevin Duff
- Department of Neurology, University of Utah, UT, USA
| | | | - Desiree Dunn
- Department of Neurology, University of Utah, UT, USA
| | | | - Meghan S Zorn
- Department of Neurology, University of Utah, UT, USA
| | - Paolo Moretti
- Department of Neurology, University of Utah, UT, USA
| | - John Rolston
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Utah, UT, USA
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Triguero-Cueva L, Marín-Romero B, Madrid-Navarro CJ, Pérez-Navarro MJ, Iáñez-Velasco B, Mínguez-Castellanos A, Katati MJ, Escamilla-Sevilla F. Neuropsychological assessment protocol in an ongoing randomized controlled trial on posterior subthalamic area vs. ventral intermediate nucleus deep brain stimulation for essential tremor. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1222592. [PMID: 38020655 PMCID: PMC10643533 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1222592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Patients with essential tremor (ET) may experience cognitive-affective impairment. Deep brain stimulation (DBS) of different targets, such as the ventral intermediate nucleus (VIM) of the thalamus or the posterior subthalamic area (PSA), has been shown to be beneficial for refractory ET. However, there is little evidence regarding the possible neuropsychological effects of PSA-DBS on patients with ET, and there are few studies comparing it with VIM-DBS in this population.In this study, we aim to present the evaluation protocol and neuropsychological battery as used in an ongoing trial of DBS for ET comparing the already mentioned targets. Methods As part of a randomized, double-blind, crossover clinical trial comparing the effectiveness and safety of PSA-DBS vs. VIM-DBS, 11 patients with refractory ET will undergo a multi-domain neuropsychological battery assessment. This will include a pre-/post-implantation assessment (3 months after the stimulation of each target and 6 months after an open stage of DBS on the most optimal target). Conclusion Evidence on the neuropsychological effects of DBS in patients with refractory ET is very scarce, particularly in lesser-explored targets such as PSA. This study could contribute significantly in this field, particularly on pre-procedure safety analysis for tailored patient/technique selection, and to complete the safety analysis of the procedure. Moreover, if proven useful, this proposed neuropsychological assessment protocol could be extensible to other surgical therapies for ET.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucía Triguero-Cueva
- Department of Neurology Hospital Universitario Virgen de las Nieves, Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs. GRANADA, Granada, Spain
| | - Bartolomé Marín-Romero
- Department of Neuropsychology Hospital Universitario Virgen de las Nieves, Granada, Spain
| | - Carlos Javier Madrid-Navarro
- Department of Neurology Hospital Universitario Virgen de las Nieves, Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs. GRANADA, Granada, Spain
| | | | | | - Adolfo Mínguez-Castellanos
- Department of Neurology Hospital Universitario Virgen de las Nieves, Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs. GRANADA, Granada, Spain
| | - Majed Jouma Katati
- Department of Neurosurgery Hospital Universitario Virgen de las Nieves, Granada, Spain
| | - Francisco Escamilla-Sevilla
- Department of Neurology Hospital Universitario Virgen de las Nieves, Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs. GRANADA, Granada, Spain
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Torres K, Singleton M. Analyses of correct responses and errors on measures of verbal fluency among Parkinson's disease and essential tremor patients. Clin Neuropsychol 2023; 37:1479-1497. [PMID: 36550679 DOI: 10.1080/13854046.2022.2157885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Objective: Parkinson's disease (PD) and essential tremor (ET) involve neuroanatomical circuitry that impact frontal lobe functioning, via the striatum and cerebellum, respectively. The aim of this exploratory study was to investigate quantitative and qualitative performance between and within these groups on measures of verbal fluency. Method: Sixty-three PD and 53 ET patients completed neuropsychological testing. Linear regression models with robust variance estimation compared verbal fluency performance between groups related to correct responses and errors. Paired t-tests investigated within group error rates. Results: PD patients gave more correct responses for phonological (β ̂ =5.3, p=.01) and category fluency (β ̂ =4.1, p=.01) than ET patients; however, when processing speed was added as a covariate, this attenuated performance on both measures and only phonological fluency remained significant (β ̂ =4.0, p=.04). There were no statistical differences in error scores between groups. Error rates within groups suggested that PD patients had higher error rates in total errors and perseveration errors on phonological fluency (M = 2.6, p=.00; M = 1.6, p=.00) and higher total errors and set-loss error rates on category switching (M = 5.1, p<.001; M = 4.1, p<.001). ET patients had higher error rate with relation to total errors and set-loss errors on phonological fluency (M = 2.5, p=.00; M = 1.5, p=.02) and category switching (M = 3.9, p=,00; M = 3.9, p<.001). Conclusions: PD patients performed better than ET patients on phonological fluency. PD patients appear to make more perseveration errors on phonological fluency, while ET patients made more set-loss errors. Implications for frontal lobe dysfunction and clinical impact are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Torres
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Michael Singleton
- Institute of Translational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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Torres K. Comparison of core and process scores on the California Verbal Learning Test-3 for Parkinson's disease and essential tremor patients. J Clin Exp Neuropsychol 2023; 45:798-812. [PMID: 37505187 DOI: 10.1080/13803395.2023.2241653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Parkinson's disease (PD) and essential tremor (ET) are two disorders known to lead to executive dysfunction, presumably through distinct pathways to the frontal lobes via the striatum or cerebellum, respectively. Memory functioning in PD and ET patients has been previously suggested to be adversely impacted by executive dysfunction. The aims of this exploratory study were to compare memory performance between and within groups on the California Verbal Learning Test - 3 (CVLT-3) through the analysis of core and process scores and to understand the relationship of these scores with measures of executive functioning. METHOD Seventy PD and 54 ET patients completed comprehensive neuropsychological testing. Independent sample t-tests or Mann-Whitney tests were used to compare between group core and process scores on the CVLT-3. Within-subjects analyses were conducted via Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test due to nonparametric data. Spearman's correlations were conducted to explore the relationship between memory process scores and measures of executive functioning. RESULTS The ET and PD samples were similar with regard to age, education, gender, and general cognitive functioning. PD patients made more repetition errors (U = 2391.50, p = .01) than ET patients and Normal Memory PD patients made more repetition errors than Low Memory PD patients (U= 711.00, p= .00). Correlational analyses revealed repetition errors were negatively associated with tests of inhibition, set shifting, and working memory (rs = -.293, -.232). ET patients demonstrated a preference for a serial cluster learning strategy (T = 861.00, p = .005), similar to PD patients (T= 1633.00, p = <.001). CONCLUSIONS The study revealed presence of higher repetition errors in the PD sample that was demonstrated to have a negative relationship with measures of executive functioning. Implications for investigating process ("qualitative") scores in memory performance to determine extent of executive involvement are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Torres
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington Seattle WA, United States
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Berry DS, Nguyen D, Cosentino S, Louis ED. Associations between cognitive function and a range of significant life events in an elderly essential tremor cohort study. J Neurol Sci 2023; 450:120675. [PMID: 37196573 PMCID: PMC10727135 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2023.120675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although essential tremor (ET) is associated with cognitive decline, we know little about how specific cognitive changes predict significant events in patients' lives. We examined the relations of attention, executive function, language, memory, and visuospatial performance to the occurrence of near falls, falls, walking aid use, home health aide use, non-independent living and hospitalizations within a prospective, longitudinal study of ET cases. We expected executive function and memory to be most strongly associated with these events. METHODS 131 ET cases (mean age at baseline = 76.4 ± 9.4 years; 109 normal cognition; 17 mild cognitive impairment, 5 demented) completed questionnaires (clinical history and occurrence of life events) and a battery of neuropsychological tests at baseline and at 18, 36, and 54 months. We assessed associations between cognitive functioning and outcomes via regression equations. RESULTS Cases with lower baseline levels of executive function reported more near falls, p < 0.006, and were more likely to use a walking aid, p < 0.03, odds ratio (OR) = 2.89 during the follow-up period, than were other cases. Decline in executive function was associated with home health aide use during follow-up, p < 0.04, OR = 3.34. Baseline visuospatial performance also bore a marginally significant association with non-independent living arrangements during follow-up, p < 0.06, OR = 2.13. These effects were independent of age and tremor severity. CONCLUSION These data establish the important role that cognitive decline, and executive function specifically, play in the experiences of ET patients. Moreover, these associations are of sufficient magnitude to have significant clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diane S Berry
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
| | - Diep Nguyen
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Stephanie Cosentino
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, NY, New York, USA; Department of Neurology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, NY, New York, USA
| | - Elan D Louis
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
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Berry DS, Nguyen D, Cosentino S, Louis ED. Association between cognitive diagnosis and a range of significant life events in an elderly essential tremor cohort: a longitudinal, prospective analysis. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1193220. [PMID: 37388541 PMCID: PMC10301840 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1193220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Although essential tremor (ET) patients have greater odds of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia than age-matched controls, the functional consequences of these enhanced odds are unknown. We examined associations between cognitive diagnosis and the occurrence of near falls, falls, use of a walking aid or a home health aide, non-independent living, or hospitalizations within a prospective, longitudinal study of ET patients. Methods A total of 131 ET patients (mean baseline age = 76.4 ± 9.4 years) completed a battery of neuropsychological tests and questions about life events and were assigned diagnoses of normal cognition (NC), MCI, or dementia at the baseline and at 18-, 36-, and 54-month follow-ups. Kruskall-Wallis, chi-square, and Mantel-Haenszel tests assessed whether the diagnosis was associated with the occurrence of these life events. Results Patients with final diagnoses of dementia were more often reported as living non-independently than NC or MCI patients and more often used walking aids than NC patients, with a p-value of <0.05. Patients with a final MCI or dementia diagnosis more often employed a home health aide than NC patients, with a p-value of <0.05. Moreover, Mantel-Haenzsel tests revealed linear associations between the occurrence of these outcomes and the level of cognitive impairment, with a p-value of <0.001 (i.e., dementia > MCI > NC). Conclusion Cognitive diagnosis was associated with reported life events of ET patients, including the use of a mobility aid, employment of a home health aide, and removal from an independent living situation. These data provide rare insights into the important role cognitive decline plays in the experiences of ET patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diane S. Berry
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Diep Nguyen
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Stephanie Cosentino
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
- Department of Neurology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Elan D. Louis
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
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Ghanem A, Berry DS, Farrell K, Cosentino S, Crary JF, Louis ED. Cognitive Performance as a Function of MAPT Haplotype: A Prospective Longitudinal Study of an Essential Tremor Cohort. Tremor Other Hyperkinet Mov (N Y) 2023; 13:19. [PMID: 37214541 PMCID: PMC10198222 DOI: 10.5334/tohm.768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Cognitive impairment is a feature of essential tremor (ET). There are no studies of the genetic drivers of this association. We examined whether the microtubule-associated protein tau (MAPT) H1 haplotype is associated with cognitive performance in ET. Methods ET cases genotyped for the MAPT H1 and H2 haplotypes completed a battery of neuropsychological tests at baseline and four follow-up evaluations. Chi-square, t-tests, and analyses of covariance examined associations between the presence of the MAPT H1 haplotype, cognitive diagnoses of normal, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and dementia, and performance in specific cognitive domains. Results We observed no evidence of cognitive differences as a function of the presence of the MAPT H1 haplotype. Specifically, cases with (n = 57) and without (n = 42) this haplotype did not differ with respect to the prevalence of diagnoses of MCI or dementia, p ≥ 0.87. Moreover, cases with vs without this haplotype did not differ in either the age or point in the disease course at which observed conversions to MCI or dementia occurred, p's ≥ 0.51. Finally, no haplotype-related differences were observed in performance in the cognitive domains of attention, executive function, language, memory, visuospatial or global ability, p's ≥ 0.21, or in changes in performance in these domains across time, p's ≥ 0.08. Discussion The study in an ET cohort revealed no influence of MAPT haplotypes on cognitive performance. This study serves as a valuable foundation for future studies to expand our understanding of the genetic drivers of cognitive impairment in ET. Highlights This study found no evidence of cognitive differences between individuals with and without the MAPT H1 haplotype. Our work provides a valuable foundation for future work to expand our knowledge of the genetic drivers of cognitive impairment in ET.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Ghanem
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Diane S. Berry
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Kurt Farrell
- Department of Pathology, Department of Artificial Intelligence & Human Health, Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Ronald M. Loeb Center for Alzheimer’s Disease, Friedman Brain Institute, Neuropathology Brain Bank & Research CoRE, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA
| | - Stephanie Cosentino
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and the Aging Brain, New York, USA
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, USA
| | - John F. Crary
- Department of Pathology, Department of Artificial Intelligence & Human Health, Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Ronald M. Loeb Center for Alzheimer’s Disease, Friedman Brain Institute, Neuropathology Brain Bank & Research CoRE, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA
| | - Elan D. Louis
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
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Louis ED. Commentary: Time trends in the incidence of essential tremor: Evidences from UK and France primary care data. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1136150. [PMID: 36741281 PMCID: PMC9895783 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1136150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
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Bolton TAW, Van De Ville D, Régis J, Witjas T, Girard N, Levivier M, Tuleasca C. Exploring the heterogeneous morphometric data in essential tremor with probabilistic modelling. Neuroimage Clin 2023; 37:103283. [PMID: 36516728 PMCID: PMC9755240 DOI: 10.1016/j.nicl.2022.103283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Essential tremor (ET) is a prevalent movement disorder characterized by marked clinical heterogeneity. Here, we explored the morphometric underpinnings of this cross-subject variability on a cohort of 34 patients with right-dominant drug-resistant ET and 29 matched healthy controls (HCs). For each brain region, group-wise morphometric data was modelled by a multivariate Gaussian to account for morphometric features' (co)variance. No group differences were found in terms of mean values, highlighting the limits of more basic group comparison approaches. Variance in surface area was higher in ET in the left lingual and caudal anterior cingulate cortices, while variance in mean curvature was lower in the right superior temporal cortex and pars triangularis, left supramarginal gyrus and bilateral paracentral gyrus. Heterogeneity further extended to the right putamen, for which a mixture of two Gaussians fitted the ET data better than a single one. Partial Least Squares analysis revealed the rich clinical relevance of the ET population's heterogeneity: first, increased head tremor and longer symptoms' duration were accompanied by broadly lower cortical gyrification. Second, more severe upper limb tremor and impairments in daily life activities characterized the patients whose morphometric profiles were more atypical compared to the average ET population, irrespective of the exact nature of the alterations. Our results provide candidate morphometric substrates for two different types of clinical variability in ET. They also demonstrate the importance of relying on analytical approaches that can efficiently handle multivariate data and enable to test more sophisticated hypotheses regarding its organization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas A W Bolton
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Neurosurgery Service and Gamma Knife Center, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland; Department of Radiology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Dimitri Van De Ville
- Institute of Bioengineering, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland; Department of Radiology and Medical Informatics, University of Geneva, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Jean Régis
- Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery Service and Gamma Knife Unit, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de la Timone, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Tatiana Witjas
- Neurology Department, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de la Timone, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Nadine Girard
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Neuroradiology, Centre de Résonance Magnétique Biologique et Médicale, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de la Timone, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Marc Levivier
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Neurosurgery Service and Gamma Knife Center, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland; University of Lausanne (UNIL), Faculty of Biology and Medicine (FBM), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Constantin Tuleasca
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Neurosurgery Service and Gamma Knife Center, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland; University of Lausanne (UNIL), Faculty of Biology and Medicine (FBM), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland; Signal Processing Laboratory (LTS 5), Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
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Louis ED. Essential tremor. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2023; 196:389-401. [PMID: 37620080 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-98817-9.00012-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
Essential tremor (ET) is a chronic and progressive neurologic disease. Its central and defining clinical feature is a 4-12Hz kinetic tremor, that is, tremor that occurs during voluntary movements such as drinking from a cup or writing. Patients may also exhibit a range of other tremors-postural, rest, intention, additional motor features (e.g., mild gait ataxia, mild dystonia), as well as nonmotor features. The disease itself seems to be a risk factor for other degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. Both genetic and toxic environmental factors have been explored as etiologic factors. In addition to a growing appreciation of the presence of clinical, etiologic, and pathologic heterogeneity, there is some support for the notion that ET itself may not be a single disease, but may be a family of diseases whose central defining feature is kinetic tremor of the arms, and which might more accurately be referred to as "the essential tremors." Recent research has increasingly placed the seat of the disease in the cerebellum and cerebellar system and identified a host of neurodegenerative changes within the cerebellum, indicating that this progressive disorder is likely degenerative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elan D Louis
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States.
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Louis ED. Increased Medical Comorbidities in Essential Tremor-A Wake-up Call? JOURNAL OF HEALTH ECONOMICS AND OUTCOMES RESEARCH 2022; 9:123-124. [PMID: 36741333 PMCID: PMC9884147 DOI: 10.36469/001c.38905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Elan D Louis
- Department of Neurology University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas
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Ratajska AM, Lopez FV, Kenney L, Jacobson C, Foote KD, Okun MS, Bowers D. Cognitive subtypes in individuals with essential tremor seeking deep brain stimulation. Clin Neuropsychol 2022; 36:1705-1727. [PMID: 33567972 PMCID: PMC8966432 DOI: 10.1080/13854046.2021.1882578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Objective: Essential tremor (ET) is a common neurological disorder that has been associated with 60% increased risk of developing dementia. The goals of the present study were to: (a) learn whether individuals with advanced ET symptoms seeking deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery would fall into distinct cognitive subgroups, and (b) learn how empirically derived subgroups map onto criteria for mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Method: Patients with ET (N = 201; mean age = 68.9 ± 8.9 years) undergoing pre-surgical evaluation for DBS completed a multi-domain neurocognitive assessment consisting of memory, executive function, visuospatial skill, language, and processing speed. Two cluster analytic approaches (K-means, hierarchical) were independently conducted to classify cognitive patterns using domain composites. Demographics, clinical characteristics, and proportion of cases meeting neuropsychologically defined criteria for MCI were examined among clusters. Results: A three-cluster solution reflected a Low Executive group (N = 64), Low Memory Multi-Domain group (N = 41), and Cognitively Normal group (N = 96). The Cognitively Normal group was older and more educated, with a higher Dementia Rating Scale-2 score. In total, 27.4% of participants met criteria for MCI. Of the MCI cases, most were in the Low Executive (41.8%) or Low Memory Multi-Domain groups (49.1%). In the latter, 65.9% of its members were classified as MCI versus 35.9% in the Low Executive group. Conclusions: Our study identified three cognitive subtypes of ET patients presenting for DBS. Future work should examine the subgroups for progression to dementia, particularly the Low Memory Multi-Domain subgroup which may be at highest risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrianna M. Ratajska
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Francesca V. Lopez
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Lauren Kenney
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Charles Jacobson
- Department of Neurology, Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Kelly D. Foote
- Department of Neurology, Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Michael S. Okun
- Department of Neurology, Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Dawn Bowers
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
- Department of Neurology, Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
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Peterson A, Chapman S, Iglesias Hernandez D, Tafader M, Louis ED, Cosentino S. Motor features associated with cognition in non-demented individuals with essential tremor. J Neurol Sci 2022; 439:120323. [PMID: 35752130 PMCID: PMC9942278 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2022.120323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/12/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Essential tremor (ET) is a clinically heterogeneous disease characterized by motor and non-motor features, including cognitive impairment. In a cross-sectional analysis, we determined whether the presence and severity of motor features of ET are associated with cognitive performance. METHODS Participants enrolled in a study that used motor and neuropsychological measures to characterize a cohort of ET subjects. Action tremor severity and additional motor features (rest tremor, intention tremor, cranial tremor, dystonia, tandem gait missteps) were assessed in non-demented participants. Participants completed a cognitive test protocol assessing domains of memory, executive function, attention, visuospatial ability, and language. An average z-score was calculated to represent global cognition. RESULTS There were 204 ET participants (mean age 78.6, range 55-95). Participants with 10 missteps were more likely to have MCI than those with 0 or 1 misstep (p < 0.001). In unadjusted linear regression models, action tremor severity (p = 0.010), rest tremor (p < 0.001), and tandem gait missteps (p < 0.001) were negatively associated with global cognition. In adjusted models, only tandem gait missteps were negatively associated with global cognition (p < 0.001). Missteps were also negatively associated with memory (p < 0.001), executive function (p < 0.001), attention (p = 0.011), and visuospatial function (p = 0.043). No other motor features were associated with global cognition in adjusted models (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION Among non-demented participants with ET, there is an association between cognitive performance and tandem gait missteps, but no other motor features of ET. This is a first step in establishing impaired tandem gait as a possible indicator of cognitive impairment in patients with ET.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amalia Peterson
- Department of Neurology, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Silvia Chapman
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and the Aging Brain, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Marjana Tafader
- Department of Neuroscience, Lafayette College, Easton, PA, USA
| | - Elan D. Louis
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Stephanie Cosentino
- Department of Neurology, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA; Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.
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Cognitive functioning in essential tremor without dementia: a clinical and imaging study. Neurol Sci 2022; 43:4811-4820. [DOI: 10.1007/s10072-022-06045-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Essential tremor and cognitive impairment: who, how, and why. Neurol Sci 2022; 43:4133-4143. [DOI: 10.1007/s10072-022-06037-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Cosentino S, Shih LC. Does essential tremor increase risk of cognitive impairment and dementia? Yes. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2022; 163:195-231. [PMID: 35750363 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2022.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Essential Tremor (ET), by definition, is a disorder of movement. Yet over the years, epidemiologic, clinical, pathologic, and neuroimaging studies have converged to reveal a cognitive side of ET. The cognitive symptoms in ET are heterogeneous and are likely to reflect heterogeneous underlying mechanisms. In this chapter, we review and synthesize a diverse set of studies from both population-based settings to cohorts with more detailed investigations into cognition to consider the various mechanisms by which cognitive symptoms may emerge in a subset of individuals with ET. As part of our analysis, we consider questions surrounding ET diagnosis and the possibility of comorbid disease as potential factors that, upon closer examination, appear to strengthen the argument in favor of ET as a risk factor for dementia. Importantly, we also consider the clinical relevance of cognitive impairment in ET. While ET is not universally characterized by significant cognitive deficits, the data from epidemiological, cognitive, neuroimaging, and postmortem neuropathologic studies converge to reveal an increased risk for cognitive impairment and dementia among individuals with ET. We conclude by offering directions for future research, and a neurocognitive framework with which to consider existing findings and to use in the design of novel studies dedicated to clarifying the basis, nature, and course of cognitive impairments in ET.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Cosentino
- Cognitive Neuroscience Division of the Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, United States; Department of Neurology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, United States.
| | - Ludy C Shih
- Department of Neurology, Parkinson's Disease and Movement Disorders Center, Boston Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, United States; Department of Neurology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, United States.
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Louis ED, Kuo SH. What's in a Name? Nomenclature of essential tremor: Syndrome or family of diseases? INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2022; 163:1-5. [PMID: 36185589 PMCID: PMC9524858 DOI: 10.1016/s0074-7742(22)00044-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Elan D Louis
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Sheng-Han Kuo
- Department of Neurology, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
- Initiative for Columbia Ataxia and Tremor, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
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Louis ED, Kuo SH. Essential tremor as a harbinger: What is the cognitive fallout of having essential tremor? INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2022; 163:189-193. [PMID: 36172065 PMCID: PMC9512122 DOI: 10.1016/s0074-7742(22)00057-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Elan D Louis
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Sheng-Han Kuo
- Department of Neurology, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
- Initiative for Columbia Ataxia and Tremor, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
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Goldman JG, Holden SK. Cognitive Syndromes Associated With Movement Disorders. Continuum (Minneap Minn) 2022; 28:726-749. [PMID: 35678400 DOI: 10.1212/con.0000000000001134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This article reviews the recognition and management of cognitive syndromes in movement disorders, including those with parkinsonism, chorea, ataxia, dystonia, and tremor. RECENT FINDINGS Cognitive and motor syndromes are often intertwined in neurologic disorders, including neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson disease, atypical parkinsonian syndromes, Huntington disease, and other movement disorders. Cognitive symptoms often affect attention, working memory, and executive and visuospatial functions preferentially, rather than language and memory, but heterogeneity can be seen in the various movement disorders. A distinct cognitive syndrome has been recognized in patients with cerebellar syndromes. Appropriate recognition and screening for cognitive changes in movement disorders may play a role in achieving accurate diagnoses and guiding patients and their families regarding progression and management decisions. SUMMARY In the comprehensive care of patients with movement disorders, recognition of cognitive syndromes is important. Pharmacologic treatments for the cognitive syndromes, including mild cognitive impairment and dementia, in these movement disorders lag behind the therapeutics available for motor symptoms, and more research is needed. Patient evaluation and management require a comprehensive team approach, often linking neurologists as well as neuropsychologists, psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and other professionals.
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Rajput A. Does essential tremor increase the risk of dementia? No. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2022; 163:233-253. [PMID: 35750364 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2022.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Essential tremor (ET) is the most common neurological cause of tremor affecting adult humans affecting about 6% of those over age 65 years. In the United States, dementia has a prevalence of 15% in those age 68 and older. Overlap of the two conditions is therefore not surprising. Several studies report mild subclinical cognitive dysfunction in non-demented people with ET, likely related to overactivity of fronto-cerebellar circuitry involved in tremor pathophysiology. Frontal/executive dysfunction is often though not exclusively noted, and some studies have even shown areas of cognitive strengths. Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is impairment which a person is aware of but does not interfere significantly with daily activities. While MCI has been considered to presage dementia this is not necessarily the case, as some persons with MCI revert to normal cognition in follow-up. Dementia is a clinical syndrome with cognitive impairment interfering with daily activities. Population-based and clinic-based studies have shown mixed results regarding rates of MCI in ET. A handful of studies have looked at development of dementia in ET with differing results. Brain pathology studies in ET and dementia or investigating Alzheimer-type pathology have thus far been unrevealing. There is evidence by some investigators supporting a greater risk of dementia for those having older onset tremor, while those having ET at a younger age faring at least as well as controls regarding risk of cognitive impairment and dementia. At present the evidence is inconclusive that ET as a group are at a greater risk of developing dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Rajput
- Division of Neurology, Saskatchewan Movement Disorders Program, University of Saskatchewan/Saskatchewan Health Authority, Saskatoon, SK, Canada.
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Manto M. Is inferior olive central to the pathophysiology of essential tremor? No. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2022; 163:167-187. [PMID: 35750362 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2022.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Essential tremor (ET) represents one of the commonest movement disorder worldwide and is the most common tremor disorder. ET manifests with various combinations of motor and nonmotor symptoms. The clinical hallmark is a kinetic tremor of upper limbs. Historically, the pathogenesis of ET has been based on the hypothesis of an overactivity of the inferior olive (inferior olive hypothesis: IOH) where the inferior olive would act as the central pace-maker of ET, resulting in impaired electrophysiological discharges of the olivo-cerebellar tract. The absence of structural alterations in post-mortem studies of the inferior olive is a striking argument against the IOH. Furthermore, neuroimaging studies point towards the implication of the cerebello-thalamo-cerebral pathway rather than the IO, and the harmaline model which has been considered as an animal model of ET presents important weaknesses. By contrast, a series of experiments by Louis et al. have provided convincing evidence of impaired wiring of the Purkinje cell microcircuitry and progressive neurodegeneration of the cerebellar cortex. The Purkinje neuron appears as the primary culprit (Purkinjopathy). The cerebellar cortex hypothesis (CCH) has solid neuropathological signatures, unlike the purely physiological IOH. Rather than a dysregulatory electrophysiological disorder suggested by IOH, ET is a clinical-pathological entity similar to late onset neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson's disease or Alzheimer's disease. The CCH emphasizes the need to develop novel therapeutic strategies in order to maintain or promote the cerebellar reserve. The modern reconceptualization of ET in a genuine cerebellar disorder is cleaning the IOH to the light of histopathological studies. ET falls in the large basket of the neurodegenerative diseases and we have entered into a novel formulation of the disease pathogenesis with direct impacts on future therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Manto
- Unité des Ataxies Cérébelleuses, Service de Neurologie, CHU-Charleroi, Belgium; Service des Neurosciences, Université de Mons, Belgium.
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Shang Y, Chen X, Ai M, Gao X, Dai S, Zhao M, Yang C, Wang L, Zhang J, Zhong L, Bao T, Liu X. Association of Essential Tremor With Dementia and Affective Disorders: A Meta-Analysis. Front Neurol 2022; 13:842732. [PMID: 35370922 PMCID: PMC8967984 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.842732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundThe dementia and affective disorders are common non-motor features in patients with essential tremor (ET). However, the relationship of ET with cognitive impairments and affective disorders remains controversial. This meta-analysis aimed to analyze the association of ET with dementia and affective disorders.MethodsOriginal studies published from January 1999 to October 2019 were systematically searched from the database of Medline (OvidSP), EMBASE (OvidSP), and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. Pooled standard mean difference (SMD, random effect model), odds ratios (ORs), relative risk (RR), and 95% CI were calculated.ResultsCompared with the Non-ET group, patients with ET had significantly lower Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score (SMD, −1.16; 95% CI, −1.75 to −0.58; p = 0.0001) and had significantly higher depressive and anxiety symptoms scale score (SMD, 0.55; 95% CI, 0.22–0.87; p = 0.0009). The OR for dementia and affective disorders in individuals with ET compared with individuals without ET was 2.49 (95% CI, 2.17–2.85, p < 0.00001). While there was no significant difference in Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) score between ET and Non-ET groups (SMD, −0.52; 95% CI, −0.16 to 0.13; p = 0.23), there was a significant difference in the risk of mortality between ET and Non-ET groups (RR = 4.69, 95% CI, 2.18–10.07).ConclusionThe non-motor symptoms should not be neglected among patients with ET. However, the causal relationship between ET and dementia, depression, and anxiety is unclear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yajun Shang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
- Yunnan Provincial Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Kunming, China
| | - Xinjie Chen
- Yunnan Provincial Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Kunming, China
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dali University, Dali, China
| | - Mingda Ai
- Yunnan Provincial Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Kunming, China
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Xiaoran Gao
- Department of Surgery, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Shujuan Dai
- Yunnan Provincial Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Kunming, China
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Mingjie Zhao
- Yunnan Provincial Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Kunming, China
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Cen Yang
- Department of Surgery, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Liangfeng Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Clinical Medical College of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Junyan Zhang
- Bothwin Clinical Study Consultant, Shanghai, China
| | - Lianmei Zhong
- Yunnan Provincial Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Kunming, China
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Tianhao Bao
- Department of Geriatrics, Kunming Medical University Affiliated Mental Health Center, Kunming, China
- West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Tianhao Bao
| | - Xiaolei Liu
- Yunnan Provincial Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Kunming, China
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
- *Correspondence: Xiaolei Liu
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Reclassification of patients with tremor syndrome and comparisons of essential tremor and essential tremor-plus patients. J Neurol 2022; 269:3653-3662. [DOI: 10.1007/s00415-022-10985-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Abstract
Essential tremor (ET) is one of the most common movement disorders, with a reported >60 million affected individuals worldwide. The definition and underlying pathophysiology of ET are contentious. Patients present primarily with motor features such as postural and action tremors, but may also have other non-motor features, including cognitive impairment and neuropsychiatric symptoms. Genetics account for most of the ET risk but environmental factors may also be involved. However, the variable penetrance and challenges in validating data make gene-environment analysis difficult. Structural changes in cerebellar Purkinje cells and neighbouring neuronal populations have been observed in post-mortem studies, and other studies have found GABAergic dysfunction and dysregulation of the cerebellar-thalamic-cortical circuitry. Commonly prescribed medications include propranolol and primidone. Deep brain stimulation and ultrasound thalamotomy are surgical options in patients with medically intractable ET. Further research in post-mortem studies, and animal and cell-based models may help identify new pathophysiological clues and therapeutic targets and, together with advances in omics and machine learning, may facilitate the development of precision medicine for patients with ET.
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Dhima K, Biars J, Kondylis E, Nagel S, Yu XX, Floden DP. Neuropsychological outcomes after thalamic deep brain stimulation for essential tremor. Parkinsonism Relat Disord 2021; 92:88-93. [PMID: 34736157 DOI: 10.1016/j.parkreldis.2021.10.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/24/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Non-motor DBS outcomes have received little attention in ET relative to PD. This study examines neuropsychological outcomes in ET following thalamic VIM DBS. METHODS Fifty patients completed neuropsychological evaluations preoperatively and approximately seven months postoperatively. Cognition and mood changes were analyzed at the group level and individual level. Additional associations with treatment, disease, and demographic characteristics were assessed. RESULTS Significant cognitive decline was not observed at the group level. At the individual level, 46% of patients demonstrated at least subtle overall cognitive decline (≥1SD on at least one test within at least two domains). Mild decline (≥1SD) was seen in 10%-29.17% of patients on individual tests across all cognitive domains, with highest rates in verbal memory. Substantial cognitive decline (≥2SD) occurred in less than 9% of the sample across all tests. Factors related to cognitive decline included higher DBS parameter settings, older age of ET onset, intracranial complications, and inability to reduce ET medications postoperatively. Depression and anxiety did not change when accounting for questionnaire items that could be falsely elevated by tremor. CONCLUSION Substantial cognitive decline after VIM DBS is rare in patients with ET. However, subtle decrements can occur across cognitive domains and particularly in verbal memory. DBS parameter settings may relate to cognitive decline. Further research is needed to better understand possible associations with electrode lateralization and other variables that could also relate to disease progression and test-retest effects. Symptoms of depression and anxiety remain stable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaltra Dhima
- Department of Neurology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Julia Biars
- Center for Neurological Restoration, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | | | - Sean Nagel
- Center for Neurological Restoration, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Xin Xin Yu
- Department of Neurology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA; Center for Neurological Restoration, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Darlene P Floden
- Department of Neurology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA; Center for Neurological Restoration, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.
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Pietracupa S, Bologna M, Tommasin S, Berardelli A, Pantano P. The Contribution of Neuroimaging to the Understanding of Essential Tremor Pathophysiology: a Systematic Review. THE CEREBELLUM 2021; 21:1029-1051. [PMID: 34657271 DOI: 10.1007/s12311-021-01335-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Essential tremor (ET) is one of the most common movement disorders. Over the last 10 years, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has shed light on the structural and functional abnormalities possibly involved in ET pathophysiology. In this systematic review, we aimed to identify the cortical and subcortical structures involved and the role that different brain areas play in the pathophysiology of motor and non-motor ET features. We found that structural (grey and white matter) cerebellar damage and connectivity alterations between the cerebellum and various cortical areas play a role in both motor and non-motor symptoms of ET. In particular, many studies found an association between MRI findings and non-motor symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Matteo Bologna
- IRCCS Neuromed, Via Atinense 18, Pozzilli, IS, Italy.,Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Tommasin
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Alfredo Berardelli
- IRCCS Neuromed, Via Atinense 18, Pozzilli, IS, Italy.,Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Patrizia Pantano
- IRCCS Neuromed, Via Atinense 18, Pozzilli, IS, Italy.,Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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30
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Louis ED, Faust PL. Essential Tremor Within the Broader Context of Other Forms of Cerebellar Degeneration. THE CEREBELLUM 2021; 19:879-896. [PMID: 32666285 DOI: 10.1007/s12311-020-01160-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Essential tremor (ET) has recently been reconceptualized by many as a degenerative disease of the cerebellum. Until now, though, there has been no attempt to frame it within the context of these diseases. Here, we compare the clinical and postmortem features of ET with other cerebellar degenerations, thereby placing it within the broader context of these diseases. Action tremor is the hallmark feature of ET. Although often underreported in the spinocerebellar ataxias (SCAs), action tremors occur, and it is noteworthy that in SCA12 and 15, they are highly prevalent, often severe, and can be the earliest disease manifestation, resulting in an initial diagnosis of ET in many cases. Intention tremor, sometimes referred to as "cerebellar tremor," is a common feature of ET and many SCAs. Other features of cerebellar dysfunction, gait ataxia and eye motion abnormalities, are seen to a mild degree in ET and more markedly in SCAs. Several SCAs (e.g., SCA5, 6, 14, and 15), like ET, follow a milder and more protracted disease course. In ET, numerous postmortem changes have been localized to the cerebellum and are largely confined to the cerebellar cortex, preserving the cerebellar nuclei. Purkinje cell loss is modest. Similarly, in SCA3, 12, and 15, Purkinje cell loss is limited, and in SCA12 and 15, there is preservation of cerebellar nuclei and relative sparing of other central nervous system regions. Both clinically and pathologically, there are numerous similarities and intersection points between ET and other disorders of cerebellar degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elan D Louis
- Department of Neurology and Therapeutics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
| | - Phyllis L Faust
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center and the New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY, USA
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31
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Kim SH, Farrell K, Cosentino S, Vonsattel JPG, Faust PL, Cortes EP, Bennet DA, Louis ED, Crary JF. Tau Isoform Profile in Essential Tremor Diverges From Other Tauopathies. J Neuropathol Exp Neurol 2021; 80:835-843. [PMID: 34363663 DOI: 10.1093/jnen/nlab073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients with essential tremor (ET) frequently develop concurrent dementia, which is often assumed to represent co-morbid Alzheimer disease (AD). Autopsy studies have identified a spectrum of tau pathologies in ET and tau isoforms have not been examined in ET. We performed immunoblotting using autopsy cerebral cortical tissue from patients with ET (n = 13), progressive supranuclear palsy ([PSP], n = 10), Pick disease ([PiD], n = 2), and AD (n = 7). Total tau in ET samples was similar to that in PSP and PiD but was significantly lower than that in AD. Abnormal tau levels measured using the AT8 phospho-tau specific (S202/T205/S208) monoclonal antibody in ET were similar to those in PSP but were lower than in PiD and AD. In aggregates, tau with 3 microtubule-binding domain repeats (3R) was significantly higher in AD than ET, while tau with 4 repeats (4R) was significantly higher in PSP. Strikingly, the total tau without N-terminal inserts in ET was significantly lower than in PSP, PiD, and AD, but total tau with other N-terminal inserts was not. Monomeric tau with one insert in ET was similar to that in PSP and PiD was lower than in AD. Thus, ET brains exhibit an expression profile of tau protein isoforms that diverges from that of other tauopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soong Ho Kim
- From the Department of Pathology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA (SHK, KF, EC, JFC).,Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA (SHK, JFC).,Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA (SHK, KF, EC, JFC).,Ronald M. Loeb Center for Alzheimer's Disease, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA (SHK, KF, EC, JFC)
| | - Kurt Farrell
- From the Department of Pathology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA (SHK, KF, EC, JFC).,Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA (SHK, KF, EC, JFC).,Ronald M. Loeb Center for Alzheimer's Disease, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA (SHK, KF, EC, JFC)
| | - Stephanie Cosentino
- Cognitive Neuroscience Division, Department of Neurology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA (SC); G.H. Sergievsky Center, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA (SC, JPV).,Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA (SC, JPV)
| | - Jean-Paul G Vonsattel
- Cognitive Neuroscience Division, Department of Neurology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA (SC); G.H. Sergievsky Center, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA (SC, JPV).,Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA (SC, JPV).,Department of Pathology & Cell Biology, Columbia University Medical Center and the New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, New York, USA (JPV, PLF)
| | - Phyllis L Faust
- Department of Pathology & Cell Biology, Columbia University Medical Center and the New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, New York, USA (JPV, PLF)
| | - Etty P Cortes
- From the Department of Pathology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA (SHK, KF, EC, JFC).,Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA (SHK, KF, EC, JFC).,Ronald M. Loeb Center for Alzheimer's Disease, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA (SHK, KF, EC, JFC).,Neuropathology Brain Bank & Research CoRE, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA (EC, JFC)
| | - David A Bennet
- Rush Alzheimer's Disease Center, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA (DAB)
| | - Elan D Louis
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, Texas, USA (EDL)
| | - John F Crary
- From the Department of Pathology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA (SHK, KF, EC, JFC).,Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA (SHK, JFC).,Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA (SHK, KF, EC, JFC).,Ronald M. Loeb Center for Alzheimer's Disease, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA (SHK, KF, EC, JFC).,Neuropathology Brain Bank & Research CoRE, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA (EC, JFC)
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Wu P, Lin W, Li KH, Lai HC, Lee MT, Tsai KWK, Chiu PY, Chang WC, Wei CY, Taira T. Focused Ultrasound Thalamotomy for the Treatment of Essential Tremor: A 2-Year Outcome Study of Chinese People. Front Aging Neurosci 2021; 13:697029. [PMID: 34335232 PMCID: PMC8317688 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2021.697029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Essential tremor (ET) is a common movement disorder among elderly individuals worldwide and is occasionally associated with a high risk for mild cognitive impairment and dementia. This retrospective study aimed to determine the clinical outcome of unilateral magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) thalamotomy in Chinese patients with ET. Methods: In total, 31 male and 17 female patients with drug-refractory ET were enrolled in this research study from January 2017 to September 2019. The severity of tremor and disability were assessed using the Clinical Rating Scale for Tremor (CRST) within a 2-year follow-up period. Results: The mean age of the participants was 59.14 ± 13.5 years. The mean skull density ratio (SDR) was 0.5 ± 0.1. The mean highest temperature was 57.0 ± 2.4°C. The mean number of sonications was 10.0 ± 2.6. The average maximum energy was 19,710.5 ± 8,624.9 J. The total CRST scores and sub-scores after MRgFUS thalamotomy significantly reduced during each follow-up (p < 0.001). All but four (8.3%) of the patients had reversible adverse events (AEs) after the procedure. Conclusions: MRgFUS had sustained clinical efficacy 2 years after treatment for intractable ET. Only few patients presented with thalamotomy-related AEs including numbness, weakness, and ataxia for an extended period. Most Chinese patients were treated safely and effectively despite their low SDR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peihan Wu
- Department of Neurology, Chang Bing Show Chwan Memorial Hospital, Changhua County, Taiwan
| | - Wei Lin
- Department of Neurology, Chang Bing Show Chwan Memorial Hospital, Changhua County, Taiwan
| | - Kun Hong Li
- MR-Guided Focused Ultrasound Center, Chang Bing Show Chwan Memorial Hospital, Changhua County, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Chin Lai
- MR-Guided Focused Ultrasound Center, Chang Bing Show Chwan Memorial Hospital, Changhua County, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Tsung Lee
- Research Assistant Center, Show Chwan Memorial Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan.,Department of Nursing, Hungkuang University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | | | - Pai-Yi Chiu
- Department of Neurology, Show Chwan Memorial Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Chieh Chang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Chang Bing Show Chwan Memorial Hospital, Changhua County, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Yu Wei
- Department of Neurology, Chang Bing Show Chwan Memorial Hospital, Changhua County, Taiwan.,Department of Exercise and Health Promotion, College of Kinesiology and Health, Chinese Culture University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Takaomi Taira
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
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Mild cognitive impairment, dementia and risk of mortality in essential tremor: A longitudinal prospective study of elders. J Neurol Sci 2021; 428:117563. [PMID: 34274879 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2021.117563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is evidence that the risk of mortality is increased in patients with essential tremor (ET), however, there are few longitudinal, prospective data on the predictors of mortality in ET. There is also evidence that ET is associated with cognitive impairment; yet, it is unknown whether this is associated with elevated risk of mortality. METHODS In a longitudinal, prospective study of 194 elders with ET, an extensive neuropsychological test battery was performed at three time points: baseline, 18 months, and 36 months, and cognitive diagnoses (normal, mild cognitive impairment [MCI], and dementia) were assigned during consensus conferences. We used Cox proportional hazards models to estimate hazard ratios (HR) for death. RESULTS The mean baseline age was 79.1 ± 9.7 years. During follow-up, 52 (26.8%) died. In initial univariate models, a variety of baseline factors were associated with increased risk of mortality, including demographic variables (i.e., older age), cognitive variables and gait and balance variables. In the final multivariate Cox model, baseline dementia (HR = 2.66, p = 0.006), older baseline age (HR = 1.18, p < 0.001), and more reported falls at baseline (HR = 1.10, p < 0.001) were independently associated with increased risk of mortality. Amnestic MCI was marginally associated with increased risk of mortality (HR = 1.93, p = 0.08) in primary analyses and significantly (p < 0.05) in several sensitivity analyses. CONCLUSIONS In this longitudinal, prospective study, baseline dementia resulted in a 2- to 3-times increase in risk of mortality in ET, further highlighting the clinical significance of cognitive impairment, specifically dementia, in this population.
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Becktepe JS, Busse J, Jensen-Kondering U, Toedt I, Wolff S, Zeuner KE, Berg D, Granert O, Deuschl G. White Matter Hyperintensities Are Associated With Severity of Essential Tremor in the Elderly. Front Neurol 2021; 12:694286. [PMID: 34262526 PMCID: PMC8273287 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.694286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Essential tremor (ET) occurs with steeply increasing prevalence in the elderly, and apart from disease duration, age is independently associated with an increase of tremor amplitude and a decrease of frequency. White matter hyperintensities (WMHs) are a common finding in the elderly, and their role in the pathophysiology of ET is unknown. The aims of this study were to examine whether ET patients differ in their total or region-specific WMH volumes from healthy controls and to determine the impact of WMH on tremor characteristics. Methods: A total of 47 elderly ET patients with a mean age of 72 years and 39 age-matched healthy controls underwent a thorough clinical assessment and 3T MRI. Total WMH volumes were derived from T2-weighted fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) MR images. Additionally, region of interest-based WMH volumes for the Johns Hopkins University (JHU) white matter tracts and labels were calculated, and WMHs were assessed semiquantitatively using the Fazekas scale. Results: Essential tremor patients and healthy controls did not differ in their total or tract-specific WMH volumes or Fazekas scores. However, WMH volume was significantly positively correlated with tremor severity on the TETRAS scale, and there was a significant negative correlation with the mean accelerometric tremor frequency. In a multiple linear regression model including disease duration, age, and age-adjusted total WMH volume, only the WMH volume significantly predicted tremor severity, while age and disease duration were not significant. Conclusion: We found evidence for a direct association between WMH volume and tremor severity. If confirmed by larger studies, our findings could explain the well-known relation between age and tremor severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jos S Becktepe
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Christian-Albrechts University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Johannes Busse
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Christian-Albrechts University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Ulf Jensen-Kondering
- Department of Neuroradiology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Christian-Albrechts University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Inken Toedt
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Christian-Albrechts University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Stephan Wolff
- Department of Neuroradiology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Christian-Albrechts University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Kirsten E Zeuner
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Christian-Albrechts University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Daniela Berg
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Christian-Albrechts University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Oliver Granert
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Christian-Albrechts University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Günther Deuschl
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Christian-Albrechts University, Kiel, Germany
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Radler KH, Chapman S, Zdrodowska MA, Dowd HN, Liu X, Huey ED, Cosentino S, Louis ED. Physical Activity as a Predictor of Cognitive Decline in an Elderly Essential Tremor Cohort: A Prospective, Longitudinal Study. Front Neurol 2021; 12:658527. [PMID: 34093407 PMCID: PMC8172958 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.658527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Essential tremor (ET), one of the most common neurological diseases, is associated with cognitive impairment. Surprisingly, predictors of cognitive decline in ET remain largely unidentified, as longitudinal studies are rare. In the general population, however, lower physical activity has been linked to cognitive decline. Objectives: To determine whether baseline physical activity level is a predictor of cognitive decline in ET. Methods: One hundred and twenty-seven ET cases (78.1 ± 9.5 years, range = 55–95), enrolled in a prospective, longitudinal study of cognition. At baseline, each completed the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE), a validated, self-rated assessment of physical activity. Cases underwent an extensive battery of motor-free neuropsychological testing at baseline, 1.5 years, and 3 years, which incorporated assessments of cognitive subdomains. Generalized estimating equations (GEEs) were used to assess the predictive utility of baseline physical activity for cognitive change. Results: Mean follow-up was 2.9 ± 0.4 years (range = 1.3–3.5). In cross-sectional analyses using baseline data, lower physical activity was associated with lower overall cognitive function as well as lower cognitive scores in numerous cognitive domains (memory, language, executive function, visuospatial function and attention, all p < 0.05). In adjusted GEE models, lower baseline physical activity level significantly predicted overall cognitive decline over time (p=0.047), and declines in the subdomains of memory (p = 0.001) and executive function (p = 0.03). Conclusions: We identified reduced physical activity as a predictor of greater cognitive decline in ET. The identification of risk factors often assists clinicians in determining which patients are at higher risk of cognitive decline over time. Interventional studies, to determine whether increasing physical activity could modify the risk of developing cognitive decline in ET, may be warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keith H Radler
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas (UT) Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Silvia Chapman
- Department of Neurology, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States.,Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Maria Anna Zdrodowska
- Division of Movement Disorders, Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Hollie N Dowd
- Division of Movement Disorders, Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Xinhua Liu
- Department of Biostatistics, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Edward D Huey
- Department of Neurology, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States.,Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States.,Department of Psychiatry, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Stephanie Cosentino
- Department of Neurology, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States.,Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Elan D Louis
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas (UT) Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
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Iglesias-Hernandez D, Chapman S, Radler K, Dowd H, Huey ED, Cosentino S, Louis ED. Baseline Infection Burden and Cognitive Function in Elders with Essential Tremor. Tremor Other Hyperkinet Mov (N Y) 2021; 11:16. [PMID: 34026322 PMCID: PMC8121006 DOI: 10.5334/tohm.624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Patients with essential tremor (ET) have an increased risk of cognitive impairment, yet little is known about the predictors of cognitive decline in these patients. Exposures to infectious agents throughout the lifespan may impact the later development of cognitive impairment. For example, high Infection exposure has been associated with lower cognitive performance in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. However, this predictor has not been examined in ET. Objectives To determine whether a higher baseline infection burden is associated with worse cognitive performance at baseline and greater cognitive decline over time in an ET cohort. Method/Design 160 elderly non-demented ET participants (80.0 ± 9.5 years) underwent an extensive cognitive evaluation at three time points. At baseline, participants completed an infection burden questionnaire (t-IBQ) that elicited information on previous exposure to infectious agents and number of episodes per disease. Analysis of covariance and generalized estimated equations (GEEs) were used. Results Overall, infection burden was not associated baseline cognitive performance. Adjusted GEE models for repeated measures yielded a significant time interaction between moderate infection burden at baseline and better performance in the attention domain over time (p = 0.013). Previous history of rubella was associated with faster rate of decline in visuospatial performance (p = 0.046). Conclusion The data were mixed. Moderate self-reported infection burden was associated with better attention performance over time. Self-reported history of rubella infection was related to lower visuospatial performance over time in this cohort. Follow-up studies with additional design elements would be of value.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Silvia Chapman
- Department of Neurology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, US
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and the Aging Brain, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, US
| | - Keith Radler
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, US
| | - Hollie Dowd
- Movement Disorder Division, Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, US
| | - Edward D. Huey
- Department of Neurology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, US
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and the Aging Brain, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, US
- Department of Psychiatry, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, US
| | - Stephanie Cosentino
- Department of Neurology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, US
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and the Aging Brain, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, US
| | - Elan D. Louis
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, US
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Kubska ZR, Kamiński J. How Human Single-Neuron Recordings Can Help Us Understand Cognition: Insights from Memory Studies. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11040443. [PMID: 33808391 PMCID: PMC8067009 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11040443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding human cognition is a key goal of contemporary neuroscience. Due to the complexity of the human brain, animal studies and noninvasive techniques, however valuable, are incapable of providing us with a full understanding of human cognition. In the light of existing cognitive theories, we describe findings obtained thanks to human single-neuron recordings, including the discovery of concept cells and novelty-dependent cells, or activity patterns behind working memory, such as persistent activity. We propose future directions for studies using human single-neuron recordings and we discuss possible opportunities of investigating pathological brain.
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Louis ED. The Essential Tremors: Evolving Concepts of a Family of Diseases. Front Neurol 2021; 12:650601. [PMID: 33841316 PMCID: PMC8032967 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.650601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The past 10 years has seen a remarkable advance in our understanding of the disease traditionally referred to as “essential tremor” (ET). First, the clinical phenotype of ET has been expanded from that of a bland, unidimensional, and monosymptomatic entity to one with a host of heterogeneous features. These features include a broader and more nuanced collection of tremors, non-tremor motor features (e.g., gait abnormalities) and a range of non-motor features, including cognitive, psychiatric, sleep, and other abnormalities. The natural history of these features, as well as their relationships with one another and with disease duration and severity, are better appreciated than they were previously. Studies of disease etiology have identified a number of candidate genes as well as explored several environmental determinants of disease. In addition, the decade has seen the beginnings and expansion of rigorous postmortem studies that have identified and described the postmortem changes in the brains of patients with ET. This emerging science has given rise to a new notion that the disease, in many cases, is one of cerebellar system degeneration. Across all of these studies (clinical, etiological, and pathophysiological) is the observation that there is heterogeneity across patients and that “essential tremor” is likely not a single disease but, rather, a family of diseases. The time has come to use the more appropriate terminology, “the essential tremors,” to fully describe and encapsulate what is now apparent. In this paper, the author will review the clinical, etiological, and pathophysiological findings, referred to above, and make the argument that the terminology should evolve to reflect advances in science and that “the essential tremors” is a more scientifically appropriate term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elan D Louis
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, TX, United States
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Louis ED, Radler KH, Huey ED, Cosentino S. Progression to dementia in patients with essential tremor. Parkinsonism Relat Disord 2020; 83:123-124. [PMID: 33419645 DOI: 10.1016/j.parkreldis.2020.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Elan D Louis
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, TX, USA.
| | - Keith H Radler
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Edward D Huey
- Department of Neurology, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA; Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA; Department of Psychiatry, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Stephanie Cosentino
- Department of Neurology, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA; Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
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Lenka A, Louis ED. Do We Belittle Essential Tremor by Calling It a Syndrome Rather Than a Disease? Yes. Front Neurol 2020; 11:522687. [PMID: 33178097 PMCID: PMC7594521 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.522687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Essential tremor (ET) is among the most prevalent neurological diseases. Appreciation in recent years of a richer tremor phenomenology, additional motor and non-motor features, variability in the natural course of tremor, associations with a host of other neurological conditions, and etiological and pathophysiological heterogeneity have resulted in general awareness of the clinical richness of ET. Along with this evolving view of ET have surfaced several conundrums regarding nomenclature. One of these is whether ET should be labeled a "syndrome" or "disease." Here, we revisit the classical definitions of "syndrome" and "disease" and discuss ET in this context. Considering the characteristics of "disease" and "syndrome" and evaluating the characteristics of ET, it seems to fit more into the "disease" construct. There are several reasons: There is considerable knowledge of the underlying etiologies and pathophysiology of ET, in numerous studies ET has been linked with other neurological conditions, the condition is progressive and deteriorative, and therapeutic approaches are grounded in an understanding of disease mechanisms and its associated neuroanatomy. Moreover, the etiological-pathological-clinical heterogeneity suggests that ET should be regarded as a "family of diseases" more appropriately termed "the essential tremors." This nomenclatural issue is not a mere matter of words; public health implications are numerous. A condition with the label "syndrome" may not be recognized as a serious problem, may be plagued by diminished public awareness, and may not garner funds for research that a condition with the label "disease" or "diseases" would. ET should be regarded as a family of diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Lenka
- Department of Neurology, MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Elan D. Louis
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, TX, United States
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Louis ED, Faust PL. Essential tremor: the most common form of cerebellar degeneration? CEREBELLUM & ATAXIAS 2020; 7:12. [PMID: 32922824 PMCID: PMC7427947 DOI: 10.1186/s40673-020-00121-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Background The degenerative cerebellar ataxias comprise a large and heterogeneous group of neurological diseases whose hallmark clinical feature is ataxia, and which are accompanied, to variable degrees, by other features that are attributable to cerebellar dysfunction. Essential tremor (ET) is an exceptionally common neurological disease whose primary motor feature is action tremor, although patients often manifest intention tremor, mild gait ataxia and several other features of cerebellar dysfunction. Main Body In this paper, we review the abundant evidence derived from clinical, neuroimaging and postmortem studies, linking ET to cerebellar dysfunction. Furthermore, we review the combination of clinical, natural history and postmortem features suggesting that ET is neurodegenerative. We then compare the prevalence of ET (400 – 900 cases per 100,000) to that of the other cerebellar degenerations (ranging from <0.5 – 9 cases per 100,000, and in composite likely to be on the order of 20 cases per 100,000) and conclude that ET is 20 to 45 times more prevalent than all other forms of cerebellar degeneration combined. Conclusion Given the data we present, it is logical to conclude that ET is, by far, the most common form of cerebellar degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elan D Louis
- Department of Neurology and Therapeutics, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, TX USA
| | - Phyllis L Faust
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center and the New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY USA
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Sengul Y, Temur HO, Corakcı Z, Sengul HS, Dowd H, Ustun I, Alkan A, Louis ED. Brain microstructural changes and cognitive function in non-demented essential tremor patients: a diffusion tensor imaging study. Int J Neurosci 2020; 132:154-164. [PMID: 32730718 DOI: 10.1080/00207454.2020.1803859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Essential tremor (ET) is disease with both motor and non-motor features. Notable among the non-motor features is cognitive impairment. While this impairment has been attributed to cortico-thalamo-cerebellar pathway pathology, it is likely that a more complicated involvement of brain structures underlies cognitive function in ET. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the brain microstructural changes of both white matter and grey matter in ET using region of interest based diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), and to correlate these changes with cognitive function assessed during detailed neuropsychological testing. METHOD Thirty-five non-demented ET patients with a range of cognitive function (Clinical Dementia Rating = 0-0.5, mean age = 57.5 ± 16.7 years, age range = 23-76 years) underwent a comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation and brain magnetic resonance imaging, including DTI. DTI findings were reported as fractional anisotropy, average diffusion coefficient, these values were evaluated for 32 ROIs. Cognitive domains included attention, visuospatial functions, executive function, verbal memory, visual memory, and language. Domain Z-scores were calculated each cognitive domain and compared for each brain region. RESULTS Microstructural changes in prefrontal cortical areas (dorsolateral, ventrolateral), paralimbic and limbic structures (posterior cingulate cortex, precuneus, hippocampus), basal ganglia (substantia nigra, putamen, caudate nucleus) and white matter bundles (corpus callosum, anterior thalamic radiation, longitudinal fasciculus, frontooccipital fasciculus, etc.) correlated with specific domains of cognitive function in ET patients. CONCLUSION These data suggest that not only the cerebello thalamocortical pathway, but numerous other brain structures are related to level of cognitive performance and possibly underlie cognitive dysfunction in ET.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Sengul
- Department of Neurology, Bezmialem Foundation University School of Medicine, Bezmialem Foundation University, Istanbul, Turkey.,Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - H O Temur
- Department of Radiology, Bezmialem Foundation University School of Medicine, Bezmialem Foundation University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Z Corakcı
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Bezmialem Foundation University School of Medical Sciences, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - H S Sengul
- Laboratory of Neuropsychology, Gaziosmanpasa Research and Training Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - H Dowd
- Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - I Ustun
- Department of Neurology, Bezmialem Foundation University School of Medicine, Bezmialem Foundation University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - A Alkan
- Department of Radiology, Bezmialem Foundation University School of Medicine, Bezmialem Foundation University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - E D Louis
- Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.,Department of Chronic Disease Epidemiology, Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.,Center for Neuroepidemiology and Clinical Neurological Research, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
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Peng J, Wang L, Li N, Li J, Duan L, Peng R. Distinct non-motor features of essential tremor with head tremor patients. Acta Neurol Scand 2020; 142:74-82. [PMID: 32176316 DOI: 10.1111/ane.13242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2019] [Revised: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There have been few comprehensive scale studies on the non-motor symptoms (NMS) of patients with essential tremor (ET) with head tremor (ETh) and those with ET without head tremor (ETol). We aimed to explore the motor symptoms and NMS of these two subgroups. METHODS We enrolled 199 patients with ET (125, ETol; 74 ETh) and 132 healthy controls. We evaluated motor symptoms using the Fahn-Tolosa-Marin Tremor Rating Scale (TRS) and NMS using the Non-Motor Symptom Scale (NMSS). We compared NMSS scores and the prevalence of each NMS between the patient subgroups. Finally, we conducted a logistic regression analysis of the correlation between head tremor and NMS severity, as well as other determinants. RESULTS There were no significant between-subgroup differences in demographic characteristics. Further, they presented similar tremor clinical manifestation; however, the ETh subgroup showed a higher prevalence of rest tremor, feeling of sadness, forgetting things or events, and swallowing difficulty, as well as TRS scores, compared with the ETol subgroup. Both patient subgroups showed high scores and prevalence (>50%) in difficulty falling asleep. Logistic regression analysis indicated age as a tremor severity determinant; further, head tremor and tremor severity were NMS determinants. CONCLUSION Both patient subgroups presented various NMS including sleep disturbances, cognitive deficits, and affective disorders. The ETh subgroup showed a high prevalence of certain NMS aspects including memory and affective disorder; further, they had aggravated NMS. ET with both upper limb tremor and head tremor may be regarded as a more severe clinical subtype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxin Peng
- Department of Neurology West China Hospital Sichuan University Chengdu China
| | - Ling Wang
- Department of Neurology West China Hospital Sichuan University Chengdu China
| | - Nannan Li
- Department of Neurology West China Hospital Sichuan University Chengdu China
| | - Junying Li
- Department of Neurology West China Hospital Sichuan University Chengdu China
| | - Liren Duan
- Department of Neurology West China Hospital Sichuan University Chengdu China
| | - Rong Peng
- Department of Neurology West China Hospital Sichuan University Chengdu China
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Sengul Y, Bal N, Louis ED. Evidence of central involvement in essential tremor: a detailed study of auditory pathway physiology. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2020; 127:1153-1159. [PMID: 32507996 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-020-02215-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Essential tremor (ET) is a common tremor disorder that is likely neurodegenerative. The pathophysiology of ET involves the cerebellum and its connections in the brainstem and thalamus. Hearing dysfunction has been shown to be a non-motor finding in ET patients. A limited number of studies have suggested that cochlear pathology is the cause, but studies have not evaluated the integrity of the primary auditory pathway in ET. The main aim of this study is to investigate the integrity of the auditory pathway via auditory brainstem response (ABR) and auditory middle latency response (AMLR), thereby allowing us to evaluate the auditory pathway from the 8th cranial nerve to the cerebral cortex. Sixteen ET patients and sixteen age- and gender-matched controls (64 ears) were evaluated. In the ABR study, we detected prolongation of wave V peak latencies (ms) in ET (p = 0.02). In the AMLR study, P0 (p = 0.03), Pa (p = 0.008), Na (p = 0.03), and Nb (p = 0.01) waves differed between the two groups. Eleven ET patients and four control subjects had abnormal electrophysiological findings (ABR or AMLR or both) (68.8% vs. 25%, p = 0.01). Tremor duration was greater in ET patients with abnormal electrophysiological findings (p = 0.01). Finally, we observed prolongation of latencies after the ABR III wave, indicating that abnormalities exist within the superior olivary complex. For the first time, our research provides evidence that ET-related pathology is present at the subcortical and cortical levels of the auditory pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yildizhan Sengul
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Bezmialem Foundation University, Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey. .,Division of Movement Disorders, Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.
| | - Nilufer Bal
- Department of Audiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Bezmialem Foundation University, Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Elan D Louis
- Division of Movement Disorders, Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.,Center for Neuroepidemiology and Clinical Neurological Research, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.,Department of Chronic Disease Epidemiology, Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
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Radler KH, Zdrodowska MA, Dowd H, Cersonsky TEK, Huey ED, Cosentino S, Louis ED. Rate of progression from mild cognitive impairment to dementia in an essential tremor cohort: A prospective, longitudinal study. Parkinsonism Relat Disord 2020; 74:38-42. [PMID: 32325394 DOI: 10.1016/j.parkreldis.2020.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Essential tremor (ET), among the most common neurological diseases, is associated with cognitive dysfunction. Yet, nearly all knowledge of ET-related cognitive impairment is static and cross-sectional (e.g., prevalence), with virtually no dynamic information (i.e., course and progression, conversion rates, and clinical outcomes). OBJECTIVES To quantify the rate of progression from mild cognitive impairment (MCI) to dementia in a cohort of elderly ET cases. METHODS 167 ET cases, enrolled in a prospective, longitudinal, clinical-pathological study, underwent an extensive neuropsychological testing battery at baseline (T1), 1.5 years (T2), and 3 years (T3). Results of these assessments informed clinical diagnoses of normal cognition (ET-NC), MCI (ET-MCI), and dementia (ET-D). RESULTS At baseline, 26 cases (82.7 ± 7.7 years) were diagnosed with ET-MCI and were available for follow-up at T2. At T2, three of 26 (11.5%) had converted to ET-D. At the start of T2, 23 cases (83.6 ± 7.7 years) were diagnosed with ET-MCI and were available for follow-up at T3. At T3, six of 23 (26.1%) converted to ET-D. The average annual conversion rate from ET-MCI to ET-D was 12.5%. CONCLUSIONS The study of cognitive impairment in ET is a nascent field, with limited data. We show that the conversion rate from ET-MCI to ET-dementia was 12.5%. Available studies on historical controls have reported conversion rates of 2.6-6.3%. Data such as these systematically fill gaps in knowledge, creating a scientifically-derived knowledge base to guide physicians and patients in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keith H Radler
- Division of Movement Disorders, Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Maria Anna Zdrodowska
- Division of Movement Disorders, Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Hollie Dowd
- Division of Movement Disorders, Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Tess E K Cersonsky
- Division of Movement Disorders, Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Edward D Huey
- Department of Neurology, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA; Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA; Department of Psychiatry, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Stephanie Cosentino
- Department of Neurology, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA; Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Elan D Louis
- Division of Movement Disorders, Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA; Department of Chronic Disease Epidemiology, Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA; Center for Neuroepidemiology and Clinical Neurological Research, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.
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Functional disconnection of the dentate nucleus in essential tremor. J Neurol 2020; 267:1358-1367. [PMID: 31974808 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-020-09711-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2019] [Revised: 11/08/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Despite previous functional MRI studies on alterations within the cerebello-thalamo-cortical circuit in patients with essential tremor (ET), the specific role of disconnection of the dentate nucleus (DN), the main output cerebellar pathway, still needs clarification. In this study, we evaluated DN functional connectivity (FC) changes and their relationship with motor and non-motor symptoms in ET. We studied 25 ET patients and 26 healthy controls. Tremor severity was assessed using the Fahn-Tolosa-Marin tremor rating scale (FTM-TRS) and tremor amplitude and frequency were evaluated using kinematic techniques. Cognitive profile was assessed by montreal cognitive assessment (MoCA) and frontal assessment battery (FAB). All participants underwent a 3 T MRI protocol including resting-state blood oxygenation level dependent and diffusion tensor sequences. We used a seed-based approach to investigate DN FC and to explore the diffusion properties of cerebellar peduncles. There was significantly decreased DN FC with cortical, subcortical, and cerebellar areas in ET patients compared with healthy controls. Correlation analysis showed that: (1) the DN FC with the supplementary motor area, pre and postcentral gyri, and prefrontal cortex negatively correlated with FTM-TRS score and disease duration; (2) DN FC changes in the thalamus and caudate negatively correlated with peak tremor frequency, changes in the cerebellum positively correlated with tremor amplitude, and changes in the bilateral thalamus negatively correlated with tremor amplitude, and (3) DN FC with the associative prefrontal and parietal cortices, basal ganglia, and thalamus positively correlated with the MoCA score. Diffusion abnormalities were found in the three cerebellar peduncles, which did not correlate with clinical scores.
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