Evaluation and Characterization of Executive Function Disorders after Stroke

Introduction: Stroke may have a negative impact on mental health and behavior. Cognitive disorders are common after stroke. They are rarely assessed in current clinical practice, particularly in our context. They constitute a real “invisible” handicap. In sub-Saharan Africa, we are not aware of any studies specifically assessing executive functions. These functions are at the heart of all adaptation processes to new or complex situations. This prompted the authors to carry out this study at the Ibrahima Pierre Ndiaye Neuroscience Department of the Fann National University Hospital Centre (Senegal). Objective and Methodology: The aim of this study was to assess and characterize post-stroke alterations in executive functions in our context. We conducted a descriptive cross-sectional study. It took place over a 4-month period from April 1 to August 31, 2021. Patients were matched to controls according to age, gender and educational level. Executive functions were assessed using the Frontal Assessment Battery (FAB). Results: A total of 30 patients with stroke were enrolled. These patients were matched to controls. The mean age of the patients was 46.87 ± 17.65 years. For the control group, it was 39.27 ± 12.33 years. The prevalence of executive function disorders was 20% in post-stroke patients. The majority of executive functions assessed were impaired. Sensitivity to interference and environmental autonomy were the only ones preserved. Conclusion: Impaired executive functions are common after stroke. They should be systematically assessed in all stroke patients to ensure optimal management.