Imaging features associated with the susceptibility to brain fog: a major secondary complication observed in patients with ischemic stroke

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Stroke is associated with an increased risk of brain fog with a variable impact on cognition. While some stroke survivors show a decline in cognitive functions, others have stable cognitions or revert to baseline cognitive functioning. Understanding the phenomenon of brain fog following stroke is necessary for prompt intervention and management as it is unclear whether Computed Tomography (CT) or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) features of the brain in patients with ischemic stroke are associated with future risk of secondary complications, hence, the rationale for the study. The purpose was to assess the imaging features associated with susceptibility to brain fog. 

METHODS: The study assessed anonymous images of 340 subjects aged 15 to 75 years with suspected stroke, referred for either brain CT or MRI in selected tertiary healthcare facilities/ radio-diagnostic centres in Nigeria. A retrospective descriptive research design was adopted. White matter changes and regions of infarct, including lobar atrophy, were imaging features noted in patients confirmed with ischemic stroke. Analysis was done using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), Inc. Chicago, IL, USA, version 25.0. 

RESULTS: White matter changes occurred most (39.06%), followed by cerebral ischemia (21.48%) and lobar atrophy (19.14%). Also, two-thirds (79.69%) of the patients presented with ischemic stroke may be vulnerable to developing secondary complications of the disease (p < 0.05). 

CONCLUSION: The imaging features noted in the present study may contribute significantly to brain fog development, a major secondary complication