Post-stroke depression and lesion location: A hospital based cross-sectional study

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Psychiatry
• Neurology

Background:

• Post-stroke depression (PSD) affects approximately 40% of stroke survivors.
• Neurobiological factors, including infarct location and brain atrophy, are implicated in PSD.
• Limited data exists on PSD etiology in Indian literature.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between lesion location and the development of Post Stroke Depression (PSD).
• To determine the significance of infarct site and hemisphere in PSD.

Main Methods:

• Sixty-two first-ever stroke patients were assessed using structured interviews (MINI Plus) for PSD diagnosis.
• Depression severity was measured using the Beck Depression Inventory and Montgomery Asberg Depression Rating Scale.
• Neuroimaging identified lesion location and side; cognitive function and daily living activities were also assessed.

Main Results:

• Post-stroke depression (PSD) was diagnosed in 28 subjects (45.2%).
• A statistically significant association was found between PSD and left-sided lesions.
• Specifically, left-sided cortical and subcortical infarcts were significantly linked to PSD.

Conclusions:

• Findings support an organic, biological basis for PSD, influenced by infarct hemisphere and location.
• Understanding the etiological basis of PSD can aid in early detection and treatment.
• Targeted monitoring of at-risk patients can improve quality of life and rehabilitation outcomes.