Post-Stroke Cognitive Impairment: A Narrative Review of the Comprehensive Screening and Detecting Process

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Gerontology
• Cognitive Science

Background:

• Post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) is a common complication affecting recovery and quality of life.
• Standardized screening protocols are crucial for timely diagnosis and intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current screening procedures and tools for PSCI.
• To identify gaps and guide future research and clinical practices.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search of PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Google Scholar (2013-2023).
• Included studies focused on first-ever ischemic stroke patients with confirmed PSCI within one year.
• Narrative synthesis of thematic analysis from eight reviewed studies.

Main Results:

• Eight studies (2 cross-sectional, 6 prospective cohorts) involving 25,443 participants were analyzed.
• PSCI screening typically occurred 3-6 months post-stroke.
• Montreal Cognitive Assessment and Mini-Mental State Examination were common, but cutoff scores varied; screening included pre/post-stroke assessment and risk factor identification.

Conclusions:

• Significant variability exists in PSCI screening tools, cutoff scores, and timing.
• Further research is essential to standardize criteria, timing, accuracy, and feasibility of PSCI screening.
• Early, repeated screening and risk management can enhance PSCI prevention.