Impact of Cognitive Impairment in a Multicentric Cohort of Polypathological Patients

Background: Little is known about the prevalence and impact of cognitive impairment in polypathological patients (PPs). Objectives: To assess the prevalence of cognitive impairment (CI) and delirium, their associated risk factors, and their impact on survival of a multicenter population of PPs. Methods: Prospective cohort study. Descriptive analysis of the prevalence, main clinical features of PPs with basal CI (by means of Short Portable Mental Status Questionnaire), and delirium (Confusion Assessment Method); and bivariate as well as multivariate assessment of the factors associated with both conditions. Survival analysis after 12 months follow-up by means of Kaplan–Meier curves, and multivariate analysis of mortality risk factors in PPs with CI, and those with delirium. Results: CI was present in 39% [28% mild to moderate (3–7 errors), and 11% severe (≥ 8 errors)] of the 1434 PPs assessed [in the remaining 11% (n=198) delirium was detected]; only 26% of them had been previously diagnosed with dementia. One-year mortality was 46%/31.4% in those with/without CI [p 2 mg/dL [p=0.003; RR=7.8 (2–26)], and polypharmacy [p=0.0019; RR=3.1 (1.2–8.1)]. Conclusion: CI, as well as delirium, is common in PPs. Both play a deleterious role in 12-month survival. A systematic cognitive assessment as well as prevention and early detection of delirium should be included in the clinical care of all PPs.