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Secondary Hyperparathyroidism and Cognitive Decline

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A Correction to this article was published on 31 March 2023

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Abstract

Purpose of Review

Secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT) likely contributes to the high prevalence of cognitive decline found among individuals with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). Our objective is to critically evaluate the recent literature regarding the association between SHPT and cognitive decline and identify potential mechanisms.

Recent Findings

Nine studies assessing the relationship between SHPT and cognition have been published in the last two decades, each showing that elevated parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels were associated with cognitive decline. One also found structural changes within the brain related to SHPT. Additionally, two found that SHPT treatment decreases the risk of cognitive decline in ESKD patients.

Summary

SHPT is associated with cognitive impairment. However, the severity of SHPT associated with these changes and the specific cognitive domains affected remain unclear. Future studies are needed to focus on specific cognitive domains, the trajectory of cognitive decline, and optimal treatment strategies including the impact of kidney transplant and tertiary hyperparathyroidism.

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Data Availability

The datasets used and/or analyzed during the current study are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.

Change history

References

Papers of particular interest, published recently, have been highlighted as: • Of importance •• Of major importance

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  1. Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 600 North Wolfe Street, Blalock 606, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA

    Philip Crepeau, Tatiana Fedorova, Lilah F. Morris-Wiseman & Aarti Mathur

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  1. Philip Crepeau
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Crepeau, P., Fedorova, T., Morris-Wiseman, L.F. et al. Secondary Hyperparathyroidism and Cognitive Decline. Curr Transpl Rep 10, 60–68 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40472-023-00394-5

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