Gallstone Disease is an Independent Predictor for Poststroke Cognitive Impairment in Young Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke

Background: Poststroke cognitive impairment (PCI) is an important public health issue. Previous studies proved that gallstone disease (GD) was a predictor for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease. However, association between PCI and GD remains unclear. We aimed to investigate the predictive value of GD on cognitive impairment after acute ischemic stroke (AIS).

Methods: We recruited 373 AIS patients, and the information on patient demographics and risk factors was collected. Cognitive function would be assessed 3-month after AIS. They would undergo gallbladder ultrasonographic examination and structured assessment during hospitalization. Patients were divided into young group (age <65 years) and elder group (age ≥65 years). Multivariate logistic regression models were used to identify the predictors of PCI.

Results: PCI was identified in 176 (47.18%) AIS patients. Independent predictors of PCI were GD (p = 0.014), the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score and age. While carotid plaque (p = 0.058) seemed like a potential risk factor for PCI. In young group, GD (p = 0.027) was associated to PCI, in elder group, carotid plaque (p = 0.006), and age (p = 0.033) were significantly correlated to PCI.

Conclusion: GD was an age-dependent predictor for PCI, particularly in the young AIS patients. Therefore, AIS patients with GD, especially the young, should be systematically evaluated for cognitive function.