%0 Journal Article
%T Homocysteine as a potential biochemical marker for depression in elderly stroke survivors
%A Michaela C. Pascoe
%A Sheila G. Crewther
%A Leeanne M. Carey
%A Kate Noonan
%J Food & Nutrition Research
%D 2012
%I Co-Action Publishing
%R 10.3402/fnr.v56i0.14973
%X Background: Elderly stroke survivors have been reported to be at risk of malnutrition and depression. Vitamin B-related metabolites such as methylmalonic acid and homocysteine have been implicated in depression. Objective: We conducted a study exploring the relationship between homocysteine and post-stroke depression. Design: Three methodologies were used: Observational cohort study of elderly Swedish patients (n=149) 1.5 years post-stroke, assessed using Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Montgomery  sberg Depression Rating Scale and serum blood levels of methylmalonic acid and homocysteine. Results: Homocysteine significantly correlated with depressive symptomatology in stroke survivors (¦Â = 0.18*). Individuals with abnormal levels of methylmalonic acid and homocysteine were almost twice more likely to show depressive symptomatology than those with normal levels (depressive symptoms 22%; no depressive symptoms 12%). Comparison of methylmalonic acid and homocysteine levels with literature data showed fewer stroke survivors had vitamin deficiency than did reference individuals (normal range 66%; elevated 34%). Conclusions: Homocysteine is significantly associated with depressive symptomatology in elderly Swedish stroke survivors.
%K depression
%K ischemia
%K nutrition
%K neurodegeneration
%K geriatric
%U http://www.foodandnutritionresearch.net/index.php/fnr/article/view/14973/21491