Richmond, Virginia – In today’s aging global population, the issue of cognitive decline is becoming more prevalent, affecting millions of individuals worldwide each year. However, a recent study has shed light on a potential misdiagnosis concerning dementia in the United States, raising important questions about proper diagnosis and treatment.
Published in July 2024, the study led by Virginia Commonwealth University hepatologist Jasmohan Bajaj revealed that up to 13 percent of individuals diagnosed with dementia in the US may actually be suffering from hepatic encephalopathy, a cognitive impairment caused by liver failure. This condition, often mistaken for dementia due to the similar brain impairments it causes, is treatable if identified correctly.
Hepatic encephalopathy affects over 40 percent of patients with advanced liver disease, making it crucial for healthcare providers to be aware of the potential overlap between these conditions. The liver plays a vital role in regulating chemical levels in the body, emphasizing the importance of maintaining liver health through diet, behavior changes, and timely treatment interventions.
Furthermore, the impact of aging on the liver was also explored in recent research, suggesting that early detection and intervention can reverse liver damage and its associated cognitive impairments. This underscores the significance of screening patients for underlying liver issues that may be contributing to cognitive decline.
The study, which reviewed the medical records of US veterans diagnosed with dementia, found a concerning percentage of individuals with high fibrosis 4 (FIB-4) scores, indicating a high likelihood of cirrhosis. Subsequent research on a broader patient population reinforced these findings, highlighting disparities in liver health among different demographic groups.
As our understanding of the link between liver health and cognitive function grows, it becomes increasingly important to prioritize liver screening and health maintenance in clinical practice. By identifying and addressing liver-related factors contributing to cognitive decline, healthcare providers can improve patient outcomes and quality of life.