It is well known that stroke represents one of the most common causes of morbidity and mortality. Functional outcome is influenced not only by factors related to acute stages of stroke (ie size of the brain lesion), but also by factors emerging during recovery (ie depression and dementia). Post-stroke depression (PSD) is a frequent complication of stroke, however, early recognition of PSD, which is potentially treatable, may ultimately influence the outcome.

It is known that a severe stroke generates a metabolic as well as an inflammatory response [1]. Different cytokines released from the acutely infracted area of the brain induce alterations in serum concentration of various hormones including the secretion pattern of cortisol, increase blood glucose levels as well as the production of acute phase-reaction proteins, such as CRP. Many of these metabolic and endocrine variables, in turn have been found to be associated with poor outcome [1]. Neuroendocrine changes after stroke seems to be related with stroke severity and have been associated with cognitive and/or motor impairment [2–6].