Predictors of reversible mild cognitive impairment after stroke: a 2-year follow-up study

Abstract

Many studies have investigated mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in the context of prodromal dementia, but few have investigated recovery from MCI. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of reversible MCI after stroke and to identify factors related to recovery. Methods One hundred and eighteen patients with a first ever cerebral stroke were followed up for 2 years. Neuropsychological assessment was performed at 1, 6, 12, and 24 months poststroke. Possible predictors of reversible MCI were demographic variables, baseline MMSE scores, presence of stroke risk factors, and CT variables. Poststroke MCI was diagnosed when there was a deficit in at least one cognitive domain, without their being demented. Recovery was considered when MCI was no longer present. Results Twenty-four (20.3%) patients were classified as having permanent reversible MCI and were compared with patients without recovery. Most patients recovered from MCI between the first and second assessments (19.7% versus 13.1% and 2.0% later on). Higher baseline MMSE scores and female sex were independent predictors of recovery (OR High MMSE=9.9; OR female sex=2.8). Neither stroke-related risk factors nor CT variables were predictors of favorable outcome. Conclusion About 20% of patients with poststroke MCI recover from MCI. Higher MMSE scores at baseline and female sex are independent predictors of this recovery.