Serum Nitric Oxide Levels in Patients with Probable Alzheimer Disease and Vascular Dementia

Aim: Nitric oxide is involved in pathological processes that lead to tissue damage partly because of its free radical nature. Oxidative stress and vascular dysfunction are recognized contributors in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer disease and vascular dementia. We investigated the serum concentration of nitric acid in 20 patients with probable Alzheimer disease, 20 patients with probable vascular dementia and in 19 control subjects. We also aimed to determine the association between this concentration and cognitive impairment tested by Mini-Mental State Examination in the disease groups. Materials and methods: Serum nitric oxide concentration was determined by a colorimetric Griess reaction. Cognitive impairment was tested by the Mini-Mental State Examination score. Body mass index was calculated for each subject. Results and Conclusion: We suggest that serum nitric oxide concentration is unrelated with the risk for Alzheimer disease and vascular dementia and that it is not a good marker of dementia and cognitive impairment.