To assess the association between homocysteine (Hcy) levels and cognitive function in individuals with depression.
Key Findings:
Significant inverse association between Hcy levels and cognitive scores (r = −0.41, p < 0.001).
High Hcy levels linked to poorer cognitive performance (SMD = −0.37, p = 0.003).
Patients with cognitive impairment had higher Hcy levels than cognitively normal individuals (SMD = 2.44, p = 0.003).
Interpretation:
Hcy levels are associated with cognitive impairment in depressed patients, suggesting a potential biomarker for cognitive assessment in this population.
Limitations:
Heterogeneity among studies may affect results.
Limited prospective studies to establish causality.
Potential publication bias in included studies.
Conclusion:
Hcy levels correlate with cognitive impairment in depression, warranting further research to clarify clinical relevance.
