Neurocognitive profile and depression in obstructive sleep apnea

Background: Neurocognitive decline and depression are the most common unaddressed but noticeable adverse consequences linked with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) which can affect work performance, social functioning, and quality of life. It is significant to explore both cognition and mood disorders in OSA, as there is adequate evidence in the literature supporting the efficacy of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) in the management. Aims and Objectives: The aim was to assess the neurocognitive profile and depression in patients with OSA in our center. Patients and Methods: This was a cross-sectional observational study conducted in a tertiary care center between January 2017 and January 2018. A total of 92 patients with an established diagnosis of OSA (by polysomnography) were included in the study. All patients were given questionnaires for the assessment of neurocognitive function and depression scoring. Results: Out of 92 OSA patients, 29 (31.5%) had normal cognition, 43 (46.7%) had mild cognitive impairment (CI), and 20 (21.7%) had major CI. Out of twenty patients with major CI, major attention deficit was observed in 17 (85%), memory impairment in 16 (80%), verbal fluency was affected in 13 (65%), deficit in language skills was observed in 7 (35%), and visuospatial abilities were affected in 17 patients (85%). Out of 92 OSA patients, 21 (22.8%) had depression and 71.4% of them were females. Conclusions: OSA is an independent risk factor for both depression and neurocognitive decline. It is highly recommended that patients with OSA should be screened for both, so as to provide better clinical outcomes.