Post-stroke depression
PAPARIGOPOULOS TH., STACHTEA X.

Post-stroke depression (PSD) appears to be a frequent and important complication of stroke. It is estimated that its prevalence varies from 20% to 50% among patients during the first year after stroke. The observed variability can be attributed to various methodological problems. Various neuroanatomical and psychosocial determinants have been proposed, which implies that PSD is of multifactorial aetiopathogenesis. The location of the lesion, its extent and the severity of stroke have been claimed to be of particular significance but this is still a controversial issue. An association between left anterior lesions and PSD had been proposed by a number of investigators but this claim has not been substantiated. Besides, several other factors have been proposed, such as underlying neurotransmitter disturbances mediating mood regulation and an inflammatory mechanism, as well as physical disability, cognitive impairment and lack of social support. PSD definitely aggravates the functional outcome and the patients' quality of life and considerably increases post-stroke mortality. Consequently, it is important to closely monitor this high risk population for the event of developing depression, in order to adequately and timely treat this condition which may negatively influence the overall course and prognosis of the illness. Encephalos 2008, 45(4):205-212.

Key words: Post-stroke depression, epidemiology, risk factors, aetiopathogenesis.