Exploring the Link between Anticoagulation, Cognitive Impairment and Dementia in Atrial Fibrillation: A Systematic Review.

Background: The impact of oral anticoagulants (OACs) on cognitive impairment and dementia in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) is not well characterized. This systematic review aims to address this knowledge gap. Methods: SCOPUS and PubMed searches were conducted to identify articles in the English language investigating the association between the use of OACs and cognitive impairment and dementia. We excluded non-original research studies and studies that did not report data on cognitive impairment or included patients who underwent open heart surgery or had psychiatric illnesses or cancer. Results: Out of 22 studies (n = 606,404 patients), 13 studies (n = 597,744 patients) reported a reduction in cognitive impairment/dementia in those undergoing thromboprophylaxis. Using direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) was associated with a lower incidence of cognitive impairment in 10 studies (n = 284,636 patients). One study found that patients undergoing dual therapy (n = 6794 patients) had a greater incidence of cognitive impairment compared to those undergoing monotherapy (n = 9994 patients). Three studies (n = 61,991 patients) showed that AF patients on DOACs had a lower likelihood of dementia diagnosis than those on vitamin K antagonists (VKAs). Dementia incidence was lower when VKAs were under good control. Conclusions: The use of oral anticoagulants has the potential to prevent cognitive impairment and dementia in patients with AF. Since most of the published research on this subject is observational in nature, more randomized controlled trials are needed to fully understand the effect of anticoagulants on cognitive function.

Extranodal Rosai-Dorfman Disease: a rare presentation involving anterior chest wall in a middle-aged female.

Rosai-Dorfman Disease is a rare benign disorder involving overproduction of immune cells, causing swollen lymph nodes and, in rare cases, the sternum. The sternal involvement may cause chest pain and masses. Diagnosis is confirmed through clinical examination, biopsy, and imaging. Treatment options may include surgery, radiation, or steroids. In this case study, we present an unusual example of extranodal Rosai-Dorfman Disease involving the sternum, bilateral clavicles and first three ribs, and pectoral muscle with no associated lymphadenopathy or systemic symptoms in a 57-year-old female. The etiology, pathology, immunohistochemistry, imaging findings, and treatment options of this unique disease are discussed.