Clinical and paraclinical features of psychopathological disorders in right hemisphere stroke

Abstract

Aims: To investigate correlations between psychopathological disorders, clinical-neurological changes, and stroke severity in right-hemispheric ischemic stroke, considering age and gender influences. Study design: A descriptive cross-sectional approach was used. Place and Duration of Study: A group of 171 patients who suffered from right-hemisphere strokes were included in the study. These patients received treatment at the medical and diagnostic department No. 1 of the private company "LORITOM". Methodology: A pre-tested questionnaire was utilised to gather information from patients who were receiving treatment for right-hemispheric strokes at Treatment and Diagnostic Department No. 1 of the private enterprise "LORITOM." The National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) was created to assess the seriousness of stroke symptoms. A scale ranging from 0 to 5 was employed to evaluate Muscle Strength, with plegia being a separate category. Results: Gender distribution among stroke patients was balanced (48% males, 52% females), highlighting equal susceptibility. The age analysis revealed a mean of 70.79 years, with significant differences across the age groups. Prevalence was notably high in the over 70s (χ2=57.0877, p<0.0001) and 60-69 age group (Z=5.3, p<0.0001). Gender differences exist in certain age categories. The stroke severity is associated with patient characteristics but not gender. The muscle strength correlates with the stroke severity (Z=9.93, p<0.05). The neglect is prevalent (61.91%) and linked to the stroke severity. Right-hemispheric stroke is associated with higher anxiety than depression, with a weakening correlation at severe levels (R=0.782, p=0.00000). Conclusion: The comprehensive analysis of stroke patient data underscored the need for gender-specific healthcare strategies, highlighted the age-related prevalence patterns, and emphasised the significance of assessing psychomotional well-being, particularly in individuals with right-hemispheric stroke.