Life-time infections correlate with memory impairment, as well as a reduction in the speed and quality of mental operations performed, US researchers believe.
Researchers from Columbia University and the University of Miami argue that contact with Chlamydia pneumoniae, Helicobacter pylori or cytomegaloviruses or herpes simplex viruses can lead to a deterioration in memory functioning, prolonged information processing time and weakened activities related to abstract thinking, planning and reasoning processes.
The infected organism does not even have to fall into a disease state. It is enough for the blood to contain antibodies that indicate prior contact with the aforementioned germs – very common in our environment.
Scientists do not know why infections are linked to impaired mental functions.
“It may be because the immune system is defending itself against infection, or it may be the infections themselves that are causing clinical damage that we are not aware of,” says Clinton Wright, one of the researchers.
Previous studies have found that infections also correlate with a higher risk of stroke and Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers believe that this also applies to atherosclerosis and general inflammation in the body.
The results of these analyzes were presented at this year’s San Diego International Stroke Conference (USA), which was held on February 12-14. (PAP)