Association between elevated systemic inflammatory markers and the risk of cognitive decline progression: a longitudinal study

Background Chronic systemic inflammation is linked to cognitive decline pathogenesis. This study investigates the association between systemic inflammation markers and cognitive decline progression in a clinical cohort. Methods This prospective observational cohort study enrolled 295 participants. Cognitive decline progression was defined by an increase in clinical dementia rating (CDR) scores. The study examines the correlation between systemic inflammation markers, including systemic Inflammation Response Index (SIRI), systemic Immune-Inflammation Index (SII), prognostic Inflammatory and Nutritional Index (PIV), and cognitive impairment progression. Results The presence of the APOE 4 allele and diabetes mellitus was associated with elevated PIV levels (P < 0.05). Additionally, AD patients had the highest SII levels, indicating increased inflammation compared to individuals with MCI and SCD (P < 0.05). After a mean follow-up of 17 months, 117 patients (51.31%) experienced cognitive decline progression. AD diagnosis, CDR, and SII were significant predictors of cognitive decline progression (All P < 0.05). Conclusion This study highlights the clinical significance of elevated systemic inflammation markers in identifying individuals at risk of cognitive decline. Addressing inflammation may offer a promising approach to improving cognitive health and mitigating age-related cognitive decline.