CHEF

In our study "CHEF - Characterization of cognitive impairment in heart failure", we investigate subjects with chronic heart failure and acute, newly diagnosed heart failure with regard to cognitive disorders. The study will be conducted in collaboration with the DZNE Bonn, the Clinic of Vascular Neurology at Bonn University Hospital and the Medical Clinic and Polyclinic II - Heart Center at Bonn University Clinic.

Background and aims

In recent years, it has been observed that patients with heart failure often suffer from cognitive impairment and have an increased risk of developing dementia. The presence of cognitive impairment is in turn a negative prognostic factor for heart failure and leads to an increased rate of rehospitalisation and mortality. Despite its great clinical importance, cognitive impairment is underdiagnosed in patients with heart failure.

The aims of our study are the characterization of cognitive profiles in subjects with heart failure and their correlation with biomarkers in blood and imaging features. Thus, indicators and predictors of cognitive decline will be investigated.

Overview

The aim of this study is to examine the correlations between the results of neuropsychological examinations, blood tests and imaging procedures and the cardiologic examinations from the regular treatment of the cardiology department. We include subjects who are undergoing treatment for chronic heart failure or acute, newly developed heart failure at the Medical Clinic and Polyclinic II (Heart Center) of the University Hospital Bonn.

In addition to a survey on their medical history and demographic data, the following examinations are carried out:

• Data collection using self-assessment questionnaires
• Examination of memory, speech, attention and concentration performance
• Imaging examination of the head (3T magnetic resonance imaging)
• Blood sampling

The cardiologic examination (incl. ECG, cardiac ultrasound and, if medically indicated, cardiac catheterization and cardio-MRI) takes place as part of the clinical routine at the cardiology department of the University Hospital Bonn. The participants are asked for their consent for this data to be used for the study.

Course of the study

After we have checked the inclusion and exclusion criteria and the subjects have given their consent, we will invite them to a visit at the start of the study and 12 months later. At both times, we will record their medical and demographic data, examine them neurologically and take blood samples. They will also undergo a detailed neuropsychological examination to assess cognitive disorders. Furthermore, imaging of the head (cerebral MRI) will be carried out, unless there  are any contraindications to the MRI examination (pacemaker, implants).

Principle Investigator: Prof. Dr. Gabor Petzold
Start of the study: Q2/2025
Status: monocentric (DZNE Bonn), recruiting activ

Sandra Becker
sandra.becker2(at)ukbonn.de
Sara Theisen
sara.theisen(at)ukbonn.de
+49 228 287-14439

Dr. Taraneh Ebrahimi
taraneh.ebrahimi(at)ukbonn.de
+49 228 287-15750