Karger Publishers, Dementia and Geriatric Cognitive Disorders, 4(32), p. 279-286, 2011
DOI: 10.1159/000334949
Full text: Unavailable
<i>Objective:</i> To examine the impact of corpus callosum (CC) tissue loss on the development of global cognitive and motor impairment in the elderly. <i>Methods:</i> This study was based on the Leukoaraiosis and Disability (LADIS) study. Assessment of cognitive and motor functions and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were done at baseline and at a 3-year follow-up in nondemented elderly subjects. <i>Results:</i> 328 of 639 LADIS subjects had MRIs at baseline and at the 3-year follow-up, which allowed for assessment of CC. Logistic regression revealed differential tissue loss rates in posterior CC in subjects converting to dementia, compared to nonconverters (p < 0.05). Anterior and posterior CC tissue loss was significantly correlated with self-perceived memory impairment in nonconverters (p < 0.05). CC tissue loss was also significantly associated with impaired single leg stance time (p < 0.01). <i>Conclusion:</i> The present longitudinal study on CC supports the role of callosal tissue loss in the development of global cognitive as well as motor impairment.