Exploring the connection between stroke, delirium, and long-term cognitive issues

DEliriuM in STroke: the Link Between Stroke, Delirium and Long-term Cognitive Impairment

Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel · NCT06650436

This study is trying to see if having delirium after a stroke can lead to long-term thinking problems, regardless of other brain issues or past cognitive health.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment150 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (other)
Locations1 site (Brussels)
Trial IDNCT06650436 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to determine if post-stroke delirium (PSD) is a risk factor for post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI), independent of brain frailty and pre-existing cognitive function. It will document patient characteristics, stroke severity, and assess delirium during hospitalization using the 4 'A's Test. Additionally, the study will investigate the impact of infarct location and brain network disintegration on the development of both PSD and PSCI. Clinical assessments will be repeated at 3 and 12 months to monitor changes in cognitive function.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older who have experienced their first-ever ischemic stroke within the last 72 hours and can participate in cognitive assessments.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of epilepsy, pre-existing brain lesions, or severe cognitive impairments that hinder assessment may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved understanding and management of cognitive impairment following a stroke.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific link between PSD and PSCI is being explored, similar studies have shown promising results in understanding cognitive outcomes post-stroke.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* 18 years or older,
* clinical diagnosis of first-ever ischemic stroke (onset \<72h at time of inclusion),
* admitted at stroke unit of UZ Brussel,
* ability to participate in cognitive assessments,
* fluency in Dutch or French,
* ability to undergo an EEG during the first 24 hours after onset of stroke symptoms,
* ability to undergo MRI of the brain.

Exclusion Criteria:

* epilepsy history,
* pre-existing, space occupying brain lesion (except small meningeoma),
* pregnancy or wish to become pregnant,
* severe language impairment or dementia impeding cognitive assessment, life expectancy of less than 1 year.

Where this trial is running

Brussels

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Ischemic Stroke, Delirium, Cognitive Impairment, Post stroke delirium, Post-stroke cognitive impairment, EEG

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.