PWE-061 Homozyogosity in the ApoE4 polymorphism is associated with dysphagic symptoms in an otherwise healthy elderly population: Abstract PWE-061 Figure 1

Abstract

Purpose: Apolipoprotein E (ApoE) is thought to be the most common genetic risk factor for Alzheimer's disease and has a number of polymorphisms. While the E2 allele is proposed to have a protective nature, it E4 allele is said to increase the risk of cognitive decline. We therefore hypothesized that the presence of ApoE4 would be predictive of dysphagia symptoms. Method(s): 800 members of a genetically well characterized community dwelling elderly cohort received the Sydney oropharyngeal dysphagia questionnaire via mail (Wallace et al 2000. Cognitive function was also measured using the Telephone Interview of Cognitive Status and mood with the Geriatric Depression Score. ApoE4/2 allele status was then correlated with dysphagia symptoms. Result(s): Completed questionnaire response rate was 79 % (23.5 % men, 76.5 % women; mean age 81 (plus or minus) 5 years; range 69-98 years). Possession of one or more of the ApoE 4 and 2 alleles was found in 23.5 and 16 % respectively. Swallowing score was significantly related to GDS (CC 0.133, P<0.001nullnull) and age (CC 0.107, P<0.007nullnull). While swallowing score was not significantly associated with possession of single E4 or E2 alleles ApoE E4 homozygosity showed an association with significantly higher swallowing scores compared to those of all other allele combinations (P = 0.033). Conclusion: We have shown a novel relationship between self reported dysphagic symptoms and ApoE genotype in community dwelling older adults. The presence of ApoE4 homozygosity appears to associate with dysphagia symptoms but requires replication in independent larger cohorts. (Figure Presented).