Post-Stroke Depression at Teaching Hospital Center of Libreville

Abstract

Introduction: Post-stroke depression occurs in a context of stroke characterized by sadness, loss of interest, feelings of guilt, loss of appetite, a feeling of tiredness, and a lack of concentration. Material and Methods: We conducted a descriptive cross-sectional study from January 1, 2013 to September 30, 2016. For the diagnosis of post-stroke depression, neuropsychological tests (DSM-IV and MADRS) were used. The collection approach was a maintenance survey followed by an examination. Results: From 153 stroke patients, 48.4% (n = 74) had post-stroke depression. Depressed mood was noted in 50.3% and 43.8% had a marked decrease in interest. 67.9% of these patients had a primary level of education. Widows had 4.2 times the risk of post-stroke depression, and married and retired patients were 3 times more likely than public servants. The occurrence of post-stroke depression was significantly related to the presence of motor deficit in our patients, p < 0.0001. Conclusion: These results suggest that the risk of developing depression after stroke increases with the motor deficit. The DSM-IV and MADRS scores remain neuropsychological examinations of choice for the diagnostic approach.