Homocysteine as a potential biochemical marker for depression in elderly stroke survivors

• Main Authors: Michaela C. Pascoe, Sheila G. Crewther, Leeanne M. Carey, Kate Noonan, David P. Crewther, Thomas Linden
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Swedish Nutrition Foundation 2012-04-01
• Series: Food & Nutrition Research
• Subjects: depression; ischemia; nutrition; neurodegeneration; geriatric
• Online Access: http://www.foodandnutritionresearch.net/index.php/fnr/article/view/14973/21491
• ISSN: 1654-6628; 1654-661X

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 Åsberg Depression Rating Scale and serum blood levels of methylmalonic acid and homocysteine. Results: Homocysteine significantly correlated with depressive symptomatology in stroke survivors (β = 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.