Cognitive trajectory in the first year after first-ever ischaemic stroke in young adults: the ODYSSEY study

Abstract

Background Limited data exists on cognitive recovery in young stroke patients. We aimed to investigate the longitudinal course of cognitive performance during the first year after stroke at young age and identify predictors for cognitive recovery. Methods We conducted a multicentre prospective cohort study between 2013 and 2021, enrolling patients aged 18-49 years with first-ever ischaemic stroke. Cognitive assessments were performed within 6 months and after 1 year following the index event, covering seven cognitive domains. Composite Z-scores using normative data determined cognitive impairment (Z-score 1.96) or decline (RCI