# Postoperative neurocognitive disorder: migration and crosstalk of inflammation in the peripheral and central nervous system

**Authors:** Xinyi Chen, Wanqiu Yu, Zhaoqiong Zhu

PMC · DOI: 10.1186/s13741-025-00640-7 · Perioperative Medicine · 2026-02-14

## TL;DR

This paper explores how inflammation in the body and brain may contribute to post-surgery cognitive issues and suggests new ways to prevent and treat them.

## Contribution

The paper introduces the concept of inflammation crosstalk between the peripheral and central nervous systems as a potential mechanism for PNCD.

## Key findings

- Peripheral inflammation and neuroinflammation may jointly contribute to PNCD.
- Inflammation migration between the periphery and brain could offer new prevention and treatment strategies.
- Understanding this crosstalk is crucial for improving surgical patient outcomes.

## Abstract

Postoperative neurocognitive disorder (PNCD) causeschallenges in addition to that resulting from surgery. These adverse effects not only impact patients in the short term but can also lead to long-term consequences, including an increased mortality rate, a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, and a decline in post-surgical quality of life and longevity. To better prevent and treat PNCD and improve the prognosis of surgical patients, it is essential to enhance the understanding of the pathogenesis of PNCD. According to recent studies, peripheral inflammation and neuroinflammation may collectively contribute to the development of PNCD. This article discusses the sources of peripheral inflammation, the migration and crosstalk of inflammation between the periphery and the central nervous system, and whether this crosstalk could provide new insights into preventing and treating PNCD.

## Linked entities

- **Diseases:** Alzheimer’s disease (MONDO:0004975)

## Full-text entities

- **Diseases:** Postoperative neurocognitive disorder (MESH:D019965), inflammation (MESH:D007249)

## Full text

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## Figures

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Source: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC13001259