To determine the frequency and characteristics of Pseudobulbar affect (PBA) in patients with recent and evolved stroke.

PBA is a type of emotional disturbance characterized by uncontrollable episodes of crying and/or laughing, or other emotional displays. PBA occurs secondary to a neurologic disorder or brain injury.

PBA after stroke is reported in 11-34% of patients. In our population it is under-diagnosed. 

50 patients were included. 68% were men. Middle age 64.6 ± 12 years. Group A: 19 cases. Group B: 31 cases. Positive Beck scale: 11 patients. Positive PLACS scale: 21% group A and 29% group B. Positive CNS-LS scale: 58% group A and 26% group B. Both positive, 8 patients (2 group A and 6 group B); 3 of them with associated depression. No one reported symptoms of PBA spontaneously. No significant demographic or clinical differences were found between patients with and without PBA. A greater affectation of the right hemisphere was evidenced.

A single scale is not enough to diagnose PBA; associated depression should be ruled out. Since the symptom is usually not referred, the PBA should be suspected and evaluated with a meticulous interrogation, given the possibility of a specific treatment.