It is well-recognized now that adult survivors with congenital heart disease (ACHD) are at risk for non-cardiac co-morbidities and complications that can impact symptoms and clinical outcomes. Cognitive dysfunction, in particular, is common in this population, but likely an under-recognized and undertreated cause for long-term morbidity. Abnormal cognitive function has a major impact on all aspects of quality of life, including employment opportunities, educational attainment, and the ability to maintain meaningful social relationships, such as marriage. The association and impact of cognitive dysfunction in ACHD is not fully understood and continues to be understudied. Nevertheless, cognitive dysfunction may be a potentially modifiable risk factor in this population that is amenable to intervention, which may in-turn translate to improved outcomes. This review summarizes our current understanding of the prevalence, impact, and management of cognitive dysfunction in ACHD.
Keywords: Adult congenital heart disease; Neurocognitive dysfunction; Quality of life.
Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.