Association between iron metabolism and cognitive impairment in older non-alcoholic fatty liver disease individuals: A cross-sectional study in patients from a Chinese center

Sparse is the research on the relationship between iron metabolism and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in adults aged over 60 years with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR), serum iron (SI), serum ferritin (SF), transferrin (TRF) and hemoglobin (HB) are indicators of iron metabolism. This study examined whether iron metabolism is associated with cognitive impairment in older individuals. A cross-sectional study was held in patients from a Chinese center. Individuals with NAFLD aged over 60 years were included if they did not have excessive alcohol intake and were free of stroke or dementia. Their cognitive function was assessed by the same neurologist. 3.0T H proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy ((1)H-MRS) was performed to evaluate the hippocampus of the participants without contraindication. t test and Chi-square test were used to analyze the data. Binary logistic regression was used for correlation analysis. Fifty four (54%) of participants were diagnosed with MCI by the psychiatrist. MCI was significantly associated with higher sTfR after adjustment of all the covariates (OR = 2.565, 95%CI: 1.334∼4.934; P = .005). No statistically significant associations were observed between MCI and age or blood glucose or choline (Cho) /creatine (Cr) of theright hippocampus head. Increased age and low levels of sTfR and HB were associated with MCI in NAFLD individuals aged over 60 years.