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A Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion Technique for Inducing Post-stroke Depression in Rats
Published on: May 22, 2019
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Post-Stroke Depression in Older Adults: An Overview.
Fabio Giuseppe Masuccio1, Erica Grange1, Rachele Di Giovanni1
1Department of Rehabilitation, C.R.R.F. "Mons. L. Novarese", Loc. Trompone SNC, 13040, Moncrivello, VC, Italy.
Drugs & Aging
|February 24, 2024
Summary
Post-stroke depression (PSD) significantly impacts older adults, with prevalence ranging from 16.0 to 43.9%. Effective diagnosis and treatment are crucial for improving functional outcomes and quality of life in this vulnerable population.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Neurology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Post-stroke depression (PSD) is a common and serious complication in older adults following a stroke.
- Limited data exist on PSD in this demographic, despite their high vulnerability.
- Prevalence rates vary widely (16.0–43.9%) due to differing evaluation methods and timing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the prevalence, etiology, diagnosis, consequences, and treatment of PSD in older adults.
- To highlight the need for improved management strategies for PSD in this population.
Main Methods:
- Narrative review of existing literature on post-stroke depression in older adults.
- Analysis of factors contributing to PSD, including genetic, inflammatory, and structural brain alterations.
Main Results:
- PSD in older adults leads to poor functional outcomes, reduced quality of life, and increased mortality risk.
- Pharmacological (SSRIs, SNRIs, etc.) and non-pharmacological treatments are available, but underutilized.
- Limited high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) specifically for older adults with PSD exist.
Conclusions:
- Treating PSD is essential to prevent severe complications and improve patient recovery.
- More research, including large-scale RCTs and standardized diagnostic tools, is needed for effective PSD management in older adults.
- Careful consideration of comorbidities and potential adverse effects is necessary when prescribing antidepressants to older patients.
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