Head injury as a risk factor for Alzheimer's disease: the evidence 10 years on; a partial replication. Issue 7 (1st July 2003)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Fleminger, S; Oliver, D L; Lovestone, S; Rabe-Hesketh, S; Giora, A
• Is Part Of: Journal of neurology, neurosurgery and psychiatry. Volume 74:Issue 7(2003)
• Page Start: 857
• Page End: 862
• Publication Date: 2003-07-01
• Subjects: brain injury -- Alzheimers disease -- apolipoprotein E -- risk factors; Neurology -- Periodicals; Nervous system -- Surgery -- Periodicals; Psychiatry -- Periodicals; 616.8
• DOI: 10.1136/jnnp.74.7.857
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0022-3050

Abstract

Abstract : Objective: To determine, using a systematic review of case-control studies, whether head injury is a significant risk factor for Alzheimer's disease. We sought to replicate the findings of the meta-analysis of Mortimer et al (1991). Methods: A predefined inclusion criterion specified case-control studies eligible for inclusion. A comprehensive and systematic search of various electronic databases, up to August 2001, was undertaken. Two independent reviewers screened studies for eligibility. Fifteen case-control studies were identified that met the inclusion criteria, of which seven postdated the study of Mortimer et al . Results: We partially replicated the results of Mortimer et al . The meta-analysis of the seven studies conducted since 1991 did not reach significance. However, analysis of all 15 case-control studies was significant (OR 1.58, 95% CI 1.21 to 2.06), indicating an excess history of head injury in those with Alzheimer's disease. The finding of Mortimer et al that head injury is a risk factor for Alzheimer's disease only in males was replicated. The excess risk of head injury in those with Alzheimer's disease is only found in males (males: OR 2.29, 95% CI 1.47 to 2.06; females: OR 0.91, 95% CI 0.56 to 1.47). Conclusions: This study provides support for an association between a history of previous head injury and the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.