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Persistent cognitive impairment in climbers after repeated exposure to extreme altitude

Department of Neurology, University Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland (Drs. Regard and Landis, and Mr. Brugger)
Department of Medicine, University Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland (Dr. Oelz).

We performed neuropsychological testing in eight world class climbers who had reached summits higher than 8,500 meters without supplementary oxygen. Five had mildly impaired concentration, short-term memory, and ability to shift concepts and control errors. There were no defects in perception or other cognitive activities. The pattern of impairment suggests malfunctioning of bifronto-temporo-limbic structures. Repeated extreme-altitude exposure can cause mild but persistent cognitive impairment.

Address correspondence and reprint requests to Dr. Regard, Department of Neurology, University Hospital, CH-8091, Zurich, Switzerland.

Supported in part by the EMDO Stiftung.

Received April 19, 1988. Accepted for publication in final form August 2, 1988.

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