In conclusion, hippocampal atrophy which leads to cognitive
dysfunction does occur in COPD. MRI based quantitative
assessment of the hippocampus provides direct
evidence that COPD patients exhibit cognitive impairment.
The most prevalent mechanism accountable for
hippocampal atrophy in COPD patients is chronic hypoxemia.
Higher serum S100B level may be the peripheral
biochemical marker for cognitive impairment in COPD.