Trajectory of depressive symptoms in a longitudinal stroke cohort

Abstract

Objectives: Knowledge of the trajectory of post-stroke depression is important to identify high-risk patients, develop precise management programs and enhance prognosis. We aimed to characterise the course of depressive symptoms within the first year post-stroke and to evaluate associations with time. Materials and Methods: Depressive symptoms were measured using the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) within the first week, and at 3 and 12 months post-stroke. Scores were dichotomised into symptoms ‘present’ (MADRS ≥ 7) or ‘absent’ (MADRS < 7). The course of depressive symptoms within individuals was mapped and categorised using a trajectory diagram. The association between tim..