Vascular depression and cognitive dysfunction

Author: 

Bogolepova A.N.

Place of publication:

Neurology, neuropsychiatry, psychosomatics. 2019

Vascular depression is a very common and serious complication of cerebrovascular diseases. Vascular factors play a significant role in the development of affective disorders. Depression, in turn, also negatively impacts the course of cardiovascular disease, contributing to its progression, impairing patients' quality of life, reducing functional activity, increasing mortality, and increasing the risk of stroke. The diagnosis of vascular depression is confirmed by the detection of leukoaraiosis on MRI, including hyperintensity of deep white matter. Key features of vascular depression include cognitive impairment and an increased risk of dementia.