Abstract: Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is a serious central nervous system complication after general anesthesia and surgery. Its risk factors are very complex, and the mechanisms of POCD are still unclear. Recently, the role of inflammation, especially cancer related inflammation, in the development of POCD is of great interest. In this review, we focus on inflammation, and try to clarify the effect of anesthetics and anesthesia on inflammation and POCD. This review aimed to provide a theoretical basis of choosing appropriate anesthetics and anesthesia for these patients, especially the cancer patients, who are vulnerable to inflammation and POCD.

Key words: Inflammation, Postoperative cognitive dysfunction, Tumor, Anesthesia