Investigating cognitive decline and dementia after stroke

Exploring Vascular Contributions to Cognitive Decline and Dementia

Observational Aarhus University Hospital · NCT06257823

This study is trying to see if certain brain changes after a stroke can help predict if people will have memory problems or dementia a year later.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment140 (estimated)
Ages60 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorAarhus University Hospital Academic / other
Locations1 site (Aarhus)
Trial IDNCT06257823 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to explore the vascular contributions to cognitive decline and dementia in patients who have experienced an ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack. By utilizing MRI to assess capillary dysfunction and analyzing extracellular vesicle profiles, the study seeks to identify potential biomarkers that could predict cognitive impairment one year post-stroke. Patients will be followed for a year with cognitive assessments and imaging performed at specified intervals. The goal is to enhance understanding of the mechanisms behind post-stroke cognitive decline.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 60 and older who have experienced an acute ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack within the last 24 hours.

Not a fit: Patients with known dementia, significant brain diseases, or those who are unable to undergo MRI will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved screening and management strategies for cognitive impairment following stroke.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in linking vascular health to cognitive outcomes, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* AIS or TIA with a clinically relevant diffusion restriction identified on MRI DWI-sequence on admission
* Admittance within 24 hours from symptom onset
* Age ≥ 60

Exclusion Criteria:

* Dependency in activities of daily living (mRS score \> 2)
* Known dementia, neurodegenerative disease, or other significant brain disease
* Concomitant life-threatening disease
* Contraindications to undergo MRI
* Allergy or intolerance to MRI contrast agents
* eGFR \< 30
* Unable to give written informed consent
* Deemed unfit for follow-up

Where this trial is running

Aarhus

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.
Conditions Ischemic StrokeTransient Ischemic AttackDementiaCognitive impairmentMRIExtracellular vesiclesStroke
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.