Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Neuro-Psychological Testing In Cystic Fibrosis

Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Neuro-Psychological Testing In Cystic Fibrosis

CF is a complex, inherited illness that can affect many organs of the body. The investigators have found that some patients with CF have reported more problems with memory than would be expected at their age and that patients appear to be using memory strategies to overcome memory loss. The investigators intend to objectively test memory and examine MRI images of the brain of patients with CF.

Patients with CF have several potential risk factors which may predispose them to memory problems. Because the CF population has historically only been young, this is not something that has been focused on. No research has currently identified whether patients with CF have a much earlier risk of developing cognitive impairment or how CF impacts on the brain.

There has not previously been work in this area of CF and the investigators are in a unique position with the Cardiff University Brain Research Imaging Centre (CUBRIC) and its expertise to be able to perform Magnetic Resonance Imagining (MRI) scans and neurocognitive testing on patients with CF for the first time.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Male or Female, aged greater or equal to 30 years

  • A diagnosis of CF
  • Primary school education or above
  • Able to provide informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Contraindications to MRI as found on the CUBRIC screening form (including presence of indwelling metal devices/clips)

  • Existing neurological disease affecting cognition (including stroke and traumatic brain injury)
  • Existing diagnosis of dementia documented in medical notes
  • Vascular complications of diabetes
  • Requiring supplemental oxygen -long term or overnight
  • Hepatic failure
  • Overt psychiatric disorders
  • Past or present alcohol or recreational drug misuse
  • Pregnancy
  • Current infection Smoker