Sex and Hemisphere - A Neglected, Nature-Determined Relationship in Acute Ischemic Stroke

BACKGROUND

Sex differences in the structural connectome of the brain are clinically highly relevant, but they have mostly been neglected in stroke trials. We investigated the impact of the interaction sex-by-hemisphere on outcome in stroke patients after intravenous thrombolysis (IVT).

METHODS

This is an observational study based on consecutively collected supratentorial stroke patients treated with IVT (n = 1,231). The 3-month modified Rankin scale (mRS) was estimated by adjusted binary (mRS 0-2 for good outcome) and ordinal regression analysis. As baseline characteristics differ substantially between the sexes, we aimed for better covariate balance by employing coarsened exact matching.

RESULTS

Sex-by-hemisphere predicted good outcome in the entire cohort (726 left, 505 right hemispheric strokes, p valueinteraction 0.032) and in the matched cohort (338 left, 273 right, p valueinteraction 0.003). Ordinal regression suggested a comparable estimate in the matched cohort (p valueinteraction 0.006). Further investigation revealed relevant between-sex and within-sex risk: right hemispheric strokes in men were 1.54 times (95% confidence intervals (CIs) 1.15-2.01) more likely than in women to achieve mRS 0-2. Women with right hemispheric strokes were 0.72 times (95% CI 0.54-0.92) less likely to reach mRS 0-2 than women with left hemispheric strokes. Conversely, men with right hemispheric strokes were 1.35 times (95% CI 1.06-1.70) more likely to achieve mRS 0-2 than men with left hemispheric strokes.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that outcomes are different in both sexes after IVT when different hemispheres are affected. Further consideration of this hypothesis in clinical trials might help in guiding individualized, injury-specific treatment approaches for acute ischemic stroke.

Cross-flow determination by transcranial Doppler predicts clamping ischemia in patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy

AIM

Aim of the paper was to assess the reliability of preoperative cross-flow determination by transcranial Doppler measurement (TCD) to detect clamping ischemia in patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy with selective shunting.

METHODS

Retrospective one-to-one matched-pair analysis of 72 patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy with preoperative TCD scanning. Matching criteria were gender, degree of contralateral stenosis and the type of stenosis (asymptomatic or symptomatic).

RESULTS

Patients in need for a secondary shunt insertion had significantly less cross-flow in preoperative TCD measurement (N.=14; 38.89%) compared to the control group (N.=32; 88.89%: P=0.0001%). The sensitivity of the cross-flow determination to predict clamping ischemia was 88.9%, the specificity 61.1%. The risk of developing a clamping ischemia in the absence of a cross-flow was 12 fold higher (OR: 12.6; 95% CI: 3.7-43.3). The existence of circulatory impairment of the MCA was associated with the presence of a collateral flow in the ACoA (OR 3.21; P=0.0531; likelihood ratio test 0.0481). Other factors like renal insufficiency, the degree of stenosis or the stump pressure showed no association with a cross-flow of the ACoA in a multivariate model.

CONCLUSION

TCD scanning is highly reliable to detect cross-flow prior to carotid surgery and thus helpful to identify patients at risk for clamping ischemia and need for shunting.

Time to treatment with recombinant tissue plasminogen activator and outcome of stroke in clinical practice: retrospective analysis of hospital quality assurance data with comparison with results from randomised clinical trials

OBJECTIVE

To study the time dependent effectiveness of thrombolytic therapy for acute ischaemic stroke in daily clinical practice.

DESIGN

A retrospective cohort study using data from a large scale, comprehensive population based state-wide stroke registry in Germany.

SETTING

All 148 hospitals involved in acute stroke care in a large state in southwest Germany with 10.4 million inhabitants.

PARTICIPANTS

Data from 84,439 patients with acute ischaemic stroke were analysed, 10,263 (12%) were treated with thrombolytic therapy and 74,176 (88%) were not treated.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Primary endpoint was the dichotomised score on a modified Rankin scale at discharge ("favourable outcome" score 0 or 1 or "unfavourable outcome" score 2-6) analysed by binary logistic regression. Patients treated with recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rtPA) were categorised according to time from onset of stroke to treatment. Analogous analyses were conducted for the association between rtPA treatment of stroke and in-hospital mortality. As a co-primary endpoint the chance of a lower modified Rankin scale score at discharge was analysed by ordinal logistic regression analysis (shift analysis).

RESULTS

After adjustment for characteristics of patients, hospitals, and treatment, rtPA was associated with better outcome in a time dependent pattern. The number needed to treat ranged from 4.5 (within first 1.5 hours after onset; odds ratio 2.49) to 18.0 (up to 4.5 hours; odds ratio 1.26), while mortality did not vary up to 4.5 hours. Patients treated with rtPA beyond 4.5 hours (including mismatch based approaches) showed a significantly better outcome only in dichotomised analysis (odds ratio 1.25, 95% confidence interval 1.01 to 1.55) but the mortality risk was higher (1.45, 1.08 to 1.92).

CONCLUSION

The effectiveness of thrombolytic therapy in daily clinical practice might be comparable with the effectiveness shown in randomised clinical trials and pooled analysis. Early treatment was associated with favourable outcome in daily clinical practice, which underlines the importance of speeding up the process for thrombolytic therapy in hospital and before admission to achieve shorter time from door to needle and from onset to treatment for thrombolytic therapy.

The impact of low hemoglobin levels and transfusion on critical care patients with severe ischemic stroke: STroke: RelevAnt Impact of HemoGlobin, Hematocrit and Transfusion (STRAIGHT)--an observational study

PURPOSE

Optimal management of hemoglobin (Hb) and red blood cell transfusion (RBCT) in neurologic intensive care unit (NICU) patients has not been determined yet. Here we aimed to investigate the impact of anemia and transfusion activity in patients who had acute ischemic stroke.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective analysis of clinical, laboratory, and outcome data of patients with severe acute ischemic stroke treated on our NICU between 2004 and 2011 was performed.

RESULTS

Of 109 patients, 97.2% developed anemia and 33% received RBCT. Significant correlations were found between NICU length of stay (NICU LOS) and lowest (nadir) Hb (correlation coefficient, -0.42, P < .001), Hb decrease (0.52, P < .001), nadir hematocrit (Hct; -0.43, P < .001), and Hct decrease (0.51, P < .001). Duration of mechanical ventilation (MV) was strongly associated with both nadir Hb (-0.41, P < .001) and decrease (0.42, P < .001) and nadir Hct (-0.43, P < .001) and decrease (0.40, P < .001). Red blood cell transfusion correlated with NICU LOS (0.33, P < .001) and with duration of MV (0.40, P < .001). None of these hematologic parameters correlated with in-hospital mortality or 90-day outcome. The linear regression model showed number of RBCT (0.29, P = .008), nadir Hb (-0.18, P = .049), Hb decrease (0.33, P < .001), nadir Hct (-0.18, P = .03), and Hct decrease (0.29, P < .001) to be independent predictors of NICU LOS. Duration of MV was also independently predicted by number of RBC transfusions (0.29, P < .001), nadir Hb (-0.20, P = .02), Hb decrease (0.25, P = .002), nadir Hct (-0.21, P = .015), and Hct decrease (0.26, P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Low and further decreasing Hb and Hct levels as well as RBCT activity are associated with prolonged NICU stay and duration of MV but not with mortality or long-term outcome. Our findings do not justify using a more aggressive transfusion practice at present.

IV thrombolysis and renal function

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association of renal impairment on functional outcome and complications in stroke patients treated with IV thrombolysis (IVT).

METHODS

In this observational study, we compared the estimated glomerular filtration rate (GFR) with poor 3-month outcome (modified Rankin Scale scores 3-6), death, and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH) based on the criteria of the European Cooperative Acute Stroke Study II trial. Unadjusted and adjusted odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Patients without IVT treatment served as a comparison group.

RESULTS

Among 4,780 IVT-treated patients, 1,217 (25.5%) had a low GFR (<60 mL/min/1.73 m(2)). A GFR decrease by 10 mL/min/1.73 m(2) increased the risk of poor outcome (OR [95% CI]): (ORunadjusted 1.20 [1.17-1.24]; ORadjusted 1.05 [1.01-1.09]), death (ORunadjusted 1.33 [1.28-1.38]; ORadjusted 1.18 [1.11-1.249]), and sICH (ORunadjusted 1.15 [1.01-1.22]; ORadjusted 1.11 [1.04-1.20]). Low GFR was independently associated with poor 3-month outcome (ORadjusted 1.32 [1.10-1.58]), death (ORadjusted 1.73 [1.39-2.14]), and sICH (ORadjusted 1.64 [1.21-2.23]) compared with normal GFR (60-120 mL/min/1.73 m(2)). Low GFR (ORadjusted 1.64 [1.21-2.23]) and stroke severity (ORadjusted 1.05 [1.03-1.07]) independently determined sICH. Compared with patients who did not receive IVT, treatment with IVT in patients with low GFR was associated with poor outcome (ORadjusted 1.79 [1.41-2.25]), and with favorable outcome in those with normal GFR (ORadjusted 0.77 [0.63-0.94]).

CONCLUSION

Renal function significantly modified outcome and complication rates in IVT-treated stroke patients. Lower GFR might be a better risk indicator for sICH than age. A decrease of GFR by 10 mL/min/1.73 m(2) seems to have a similar impact on the risk of death or sICH as a 1-point-higher NIH Stroke Scale score measuring stroke severity.

Ultra-Early Intravenous Stroke Thrombolysis

Background and Purpose—

We previously reported increased benefit and reduced mortality after ultra-early stroke thrombolysis in a single center. We now explored in a large multicenter cohort whether extra benefit of treatment within 90 minutes from symptom onset is uniform across predefined stroke severity subgroups, as compared with later thrombolysis.

Methods—

Prospectively collected data of consecutive ischemic stroke patients who received IV thrombolysis in 10 European stroke centers were merged. Logistic regression tested association between treatment delays, as well as excellent 3-month outcome (modified Rankin scale, 0–1), and mortality. The association was tested separately in tertiles of baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale.

Results—

In the whole cohort (n=6856), shorter onset-to-treatment time as a continuous variable was significantly associated with excellent outcome ( P <0.001). Every fifth patient had onset-to-treatment time≤90 minutes, and these patients had lower frequency of intracranial hemorrhage. After adjusting for age, sex, admission glucose level, and year of treatment, onset-to-treatment time≤90 minutes was associated with excellent outcome in patients with National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale 7 to 12 (odds ratio, 1.37; 95% confidence interval, 1.11–1.70; P =0.004), but not in patients with baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale>12 (odds ratio, 1.00; 95% confidence interval, 0.76–1.32; P =0.99) and baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale 0 to 6 (odds ratio, 1.04; 95% confidence interval, 0.78–1.39; P =0.80). In the latter, however, an independent association (odds ratio, 1.51; 95% confidence interval, 1.14–2.01; P <0.01) was found when considering modified Rankin scale 0 as outcome (to overcome the possible ceiling effect from spontaneous better prognosis of patients with mild symptoms). Ultra-early treatment was not associated with mortality.

Conclusions—

IV thrombolysis within 90 minutes is, compared with later thrombolysis, strongly and independently associated with excellent outcome in patients with moderate and mild stroke severity.

Management of carotid stenosis in women: consensus document

OBJECTIVE

Specific guidelines for management of cerebrovascular risk in women are currently lacking. This study aims to provide a consensus expert opinion to help make clinical decisions in women with carotid stenosis.

METHODS

Proposals for the use of carotid endarterectomy (CEA), carotid stenting (CAS), and medical therapy for stroke prevention in women with carotid stenosis were provided by a group of 9 international experts with consensus method.

RESULTS

Symptomatic women with severe carotid stenosis can be managed by CEA provided that the perioperative risk of the operators is low (<4%). Periprocedural stroke risks may be increased in symptomatic women if revascularization is performed by CAS; however, the choice of CAS vs CEA can be tailored in subgroups best fit for each procedure (e.g., women with restenosis or severe coronary disease, best suited for CAS; women with tortuous vessels or old age, best suited for CEA). There is currently limited evidence to consider medical therapy alone as the best choice for women with neurologically severe asymptomatic carotid stenosis, who should be best managed within randomized trials including a medical arm. Medical management and cardiovascular risk factor control must be implemented in all women with carotid stenosis in periprocedural period and lifelong regardless of whether or not intervention is planned.

CONCLUSIONS

The suggestions provided in this article may constitute a decision-making basis for planning treatment of carotid stenosis in women. Most recommendations are of limited strength; however, it is unlikely that new robust data will emerge soon to induce relevant changes.

Relationship between onset-to-door time and door-to-thrombolysis time: a pooled analysis of 10 dedicated stroke centers

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Inverse relationship between onset-to-door time (ODT) and door-to-needle time (DNT) in stroke thrombolysis was reported from various registries. We analyzed this relationship and other determinants of DNT in dedicated stroke centers.

METHODS

Prospectively collected data of consecutive ischemic stroke patients from 10 centers who received IV thrombolysis within 4.5 hours from symptom onset were merged (n=7106). DNT was analyzed as a function of demographic and prehospital variables using regression analyses, and change over time was considered.

RESULTS

In 6348 eligible patients with known treatment delays, median DNT was 42 minutes and kept decreasing steeply every year (P<0.001). Median DNT of 55 minutes was observed in patients with ODT ≤30 minutes, whereas it declined for patients presenting within the last 30 minutes of the 3-hour time window (median, 33 minutes) and of the 4.5-hour time window (20 minutes). For ODT within the first 30 minutes of the extended time window (181-210 minutes), DNT increased to 42 minutes. DNT was stable for ODT for 30 to 150 minutes (40-45 minutes). We found a weak inverse overall correlation between ODT and DNT (R(2)=-0.12; P<0.001), but it was strong in patients treated between 3 and 4.5 hours (R(2)=-0.75; P<0.001). ODT was independently inversely associated with DNT (P<0.001) in regression analysis. Octogenarians and women tended to have longer DNT.

CONCLUSIONS

DNT was decreasing steeply over the last years in dedicated stroke centers; however, significant oscillations of in-hospital treatment delays occurred at both ends of the time window. This suggests that further improvements can be achieved, particularly in the elderly.

Glycosylated hemoglobin A1 predicts risk for symptomatic hemorrhage after thrombolysis for acute stroke

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH) is the most feared acute complication after intravenous thrombolysis. The aim of this study was to determine the predictive value of parameters of glycosylated hemoglobin A1 (HbA1c) on sICH.

METHODS

In a retrospective single center series, 1112 consecutive patients treated with thrombolysis were studied. Baseline blood glucose was obtained at admission. HbA1c was determined within hospital stay. A second head computed tomography was obtained after 24 hours or when neurological worsening occurred. Modified Rankin Scale was used to assess outcome at 90 days.

RESULTS

A total of 222 patients (19.9%) had any hemorrhage; 43 of those had sICH (3.9%) per Safe Implementation of Treatments in Stroke definition and 95 (8.5%) per National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke definition; 33.2% of patients had a dependent outcome (modified Rankin Scale score 3-5). In univariate analysis history of diabetes mellitus, HbA1c, blood glucose, and National Institute of Health Stroke Scale score on admission were associated with any hemorrhage and sICH. In multivariate analysis National Institute of Health Stroke Scale score, a history of diabetes mellitus, and HbA1c were predictors of sICH per National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, and only HbA1c when Safe Implementation of Treatments in Stroke criteria were used.

CONCLUSIONS

In our study, HbA1c turns out to be an important predictor of sICH after thrombolysis for acute stroke. These results suggest that hemorrhage after thrombolysis may be a consequence of long-term vascular injury rather than of acute hyperglycemia, and that HbA1c may be a better predictor than acute blood glucose or a history of diabetes mellitus.

Abstract TP61: Elevated CRP Between Day 1 And 7 and not Admission CRP Is An Independent Predictor For Outcome at 3 Months In Thrombolized Acute Stroke Patients

Background: The value of CRP in stroke patients undergoing thrombolysis, in the acute and subacute phase of ischemic stroke as a prognostic tool for outcome is unclear, since conflicting reports exist. Aim of our study was to explore the role of admission CRP and follow-up CRP between day 1 and 7, for outcome and mortality in stroke patients treated with rtPa.

Methods: From March 1998 to 2011 all patients admitted to our hospital and undergoing thrombolysis for acute ischemic stroke were included into an open, prospective database. Stroke severity was assessed using the NIHSS. In all patients CRP levels was measured upon admission in the emergency room, after 24 hours from the acute event and in the following days. CT scan before treatment and routine brain CT scan 24-36 h after thrombolysis were performed. Symptomatic haemorrhage (sICH) was defined according to ECASS II criteria. Functional outcome was assed by mRS at three months and divided into independent (mRS0-2) and dependent (mRS 3-5).

Results: In total, 1292 patients were registered in our database. About 70% of patients had an increase of CRP values in the first 7 days after admission. Infection occurred in 22% of patients and about 25% had a large brain infarction (>1/3 of vessel territory). sICH occurred in 6.7% of patients. Follow-up CRP levels between day 1 and 7 were significantly associated with cardio embolic stroke (p=0.033), infarct size (p<0.001), infection (p<0.001), symptomatic haemorrhage (p<0.001), independent (p<0.001), dependent outcome (p<0.001) and mortality (p<0.001). CRP values between day 1 and 7 (OR 2.824 CI95%; 1.534 - 5.201, p=0.001), infarct size (OR 2.254; CI95% 1.480 - 3.432, p<0.001), infection (OR1.752; CI95% 1.100 - 2.789, p=0.018) and NIHSS (OR 1.043; CI95% 1.016 - 1.069, p=0.001) were independent predictors for dependent outcome. Admission CRP values were not independently associated with outcome and mortality after multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Conclusion: Together with know predictors like infarct size, NIHSS and infections, maximally elevated CRP levels within day 1 and 7 were strongly and independently associated with long-term outcome in thrombolyzed stroke patients after correction for baseline variables.

Oral anticoagulants--a frequent challenge for the emergency management of acute ischemic stroke

BACKGROUND

The emergency management of patients with acute ischemic stroke (IS) using oral anticoagulants (OAC) represents a great challenge. Effective anticoagulation predisposes to bleeding and represents a contraindication for systemic thrombolysis. However, patients on OAC can receive intravenous thrombolysis with recombinant tissue-type plasminogen activator if the international normalized ratio (INR) does not exceed 1.7, but data regarding the risk of hemorrhagic complications are highly controversial. Neurointerventional recanalization of intracranial artery occlusion represents an alternative option in OAC patients with acute IS. The proportion of OAC users among consecutive patients who suffer from acute IS or transient ichemic attacks (TIA) is unknown.

METHODS

A prospective observational study, consecutively enrolling all patients with IS or TIA admitted to our neurological emergency room (ER), was performed between August 2009 and February 2011. Basic demographic variables, present use of OAC, severity of stroke, cardiovascular risk factors, INR values and the symptom onset to presentation time were recorded. In IS patients on OAC presenting within 4.5 h after symptom onset, management was analyzed. In thrombolysed IS patients, bleeding events were documented. Outcome was assessed after 3 months.

RESULTS

During the study period, 12,237 patients were admitted to our neurological ER. IS or TIA were diagnosed in 2,074 (16.9%). Complete data were available for 1,914 of these subjects (92.3%); 53.8% were male (median age: 72 years). 69.7% suffered IS, 30.3% TIA. OAC were being used by 8.7% of all patients. OAC patients were older than non-OAC patients (78 vs. 72 years, p < 0.001). Subtherapeutic INR values (<2.0) were found in 67.3% of OAC patients with IS. 54.8% of all OAC IS patients presented at the ER within ≤4.5 h after the event (57/104). An INR ≤1.7 - compatible with systemic thrombolysis - was present in 33/57 patients (57.9%). Recanalization therapy was performed in 21/57 patients (36.8%). No difference in symptomatic or fatal intracerebral bleedings between thrombolysed patients with and without prior OAC use was observed (p = 0.720 and 0.135, respectively). Multivariable analysis of predictors of the 3-month outcome in IS patients revealed that prior medication with OAC was neither associated with an unfavorable clinical outcome after 3 months in the whole population of stroke patients (p = 0.235) nor in patients in whom recanalization approaches were used (n = 306; p = 0.271).

CONCLUSIONS

Oral anticoagulation represents a frequent challenge for the emergency manangement of IS. A considerable proportion of anticoagulated IS patients appears to be eligible for thrombolysis. Establishing standardized treatment procedures in these patients is warranted.

Multicenter Experience on Eversion Versus Conventional Carotid Endarterectomy in Symptomatic Carotid Artery Stenosis

Background and Purpose—

Carotid endarterectomy (CEA) is beneficial in patients with symptomatic carotid artery stenosis. However, randomized trials have not provided evidence concerning the optimal CEA technique, conventional or eversion.

Methods—

The outcome of 563 patients within the surgical randomization arm of the Stent-Protected Angioplasty versus Carotid Endarterectomy in Symptomatic Patients (SPACE-1) trial was analyzed by surgical technique subgroups: eversion endarterectomy versus conventional endarterectomy with patch angioplasty. The primary end point was ipsilateral stroke or death within 30 days after surgery. Secondary outcome events included perioperative adverse events and the 2-year risk of restenosis, stroke, and death.

Results—

Both groups were similar in terms of demographic and other baseline clinical variables. Shunt frequency was higher in the conventional CEA group (65% versus 17%; P <0.0001). The risk of ipsilateral stroke or death within 30 days after surgery was significantly greater with eversion CEA (9% versus 3%; P =0.005). There were no statistically significant differences in the rate of perioperative secondary outcome events with the exception of a significantly higher risk of intraoperative ipsilateral stroke rate in the eversion CEA group (4% versus 0.3%; P =0.0035). The 2-year risk of ipsilateral stroke occurring after 30 days was significantly higher in the conventional CEA group (2.9% versus 0%; P =0.017).

Conclusions—

In patients with symptomatic carotid artery stenosis, conventional CEA appears to be associated with better periprocedural neurological outcome than eversion CEA. Eversion CEA, however, may be more effective for long-term prevention of ipsilateral stroke. These findings should be interpreted with caution noting the limitations of the post hoc, nonrandomized nature of the analysis.

Poststroke infections are an independent risk factor for poor functional outcome after three-months in thrombolysed stroke patients

BACKGROUND

Infections are common complications in patients with acute ischemic stroke; however, the pathophysiology of the stroke-induced immunodepression is still under debate. Although it has been shown that increased mortality and longer hospital stay are associated with the presence of poststroke infections, it remains unclear if early poststroke infections occurring in the first seven-days have an effect on the overall functional outcome.

AIMS

Aim of our study was to identify the frequency of poststroke infections in thrombolysed stroke patients and to analyze their effect on the outcome after three-months.

METHODS

From 1998 to 2011, all patients in our institution undergoing thrombolysis for acute ischemic stroke were included into a prospective database. Baseline variables, clinical, radiographic, and laboratory data were collected prospectively. Outcome measures included symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage per European-Australasian Acute Stroke Study II criteria, mortality, and modified Rankin Scale at three-months. Logistic regression models were used to identify independent predictors for poor outcome where appropriate.

RESULTS

One thousand sixteen patients were included; of them, 36·3% had an infection during the first week. Pneumonia (9·6%) and urinary tract infections (5·4%) were most frequent. Severity of stroke (P < 0·0001), infarct size (P < 0·0001), atrial fibrillation (P = 0·005), and cardio embolic cause of stroke (P < 0·0001) were associated with infections. Age (odds ratio 1·089, 95% confidence interval 1·064-1·115, P < 0·0001), severity of stroke (odds ratio 1·111, 95% confidence interval 1·073-1·149; P < 0·0001) history of diabetes (odds ratio 0·555. 95% confidence interval 0·357-0·864; P = 0·009), infarct size (odds ratio 4·256 95% confidence interval 2·697-6·745; P < 0·0001), infections (odds ratio 1·548, 95% confidence interval 1·008-2·376; P = 0·046), and symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage were independent predictors for poor outcome after three-months.

CONCLUSIONS

In our cohort of thrombolysed stroke patients, poststroke infections were frequent in patients with severe cardio embolic stroke, a large infarct, and a longer hospital stay; those patients have a higher risk of infection and a poorer functional outcome after three-months. This risk increases after occurrence of symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage. Prevention of infection with antibiotic therapy or other prophylactic treatment could potentially lead to a better functional outcome and further randomized studies on this aspect are needed.

Impact of statin use and lipid profile on symptomatic intracerebral haemorrhage, outcome and mortality after intravenous thrombolysis in acute stroke

BACKGROUND

It is unclear if a certain lipid profile and/or statin use contribute to symptomatic intracerebral haemorrhage (sICH), poor outcome or mortality after intravenous thrombolysis for ischaemic stroke. The aim of the current study was to assess the impact of statin use and lipid profile on sICH, outcome and mortality following thrombolysis in acute stroke.

METHODS

From 2001 to 2010, all patients admitted to our hospital and undergoing intravenous thrombolysis for acute ischaemic stroke were included into an open, prospective database. Initial stroke severity was assessed using the National Institute of Health Stroke Scale. Demographics, vascular risk factors, admission blood pressure, glucose levels, previous medication including statin use, lipid profiles including low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and triglyceride levels were recorded. Outcome measures included sICH according to the European Cooperative Acute Stroke Study II criteria, modified Rankin scale and mortality at 3 months.

RESULTS

1,066 patients were included in the analysis; 5.3% (57 patients) had sICH. Mortality at 3 months was 17.6% (188 patients). A favourable outcome (modified Rankin scale 0-1) at 3 months was attained by 35.6% (379 patients). Prior statin use was not associated with increased odds for sICH (OR 1.05, 95% CI 0.55-2.04, p = 0.864), mortality (OR 1.32, 95% CI 0.90-1.93, p = 0.152) or favourable outcome (OR 0.89, 95% CI 0.65-1.24, p = 0.507). Similar results were found for the different lipid variables: high LDL (OR 0.96, 95% CI 0.36-2.60, p = 0.942), high triglyceride (OR 1.74, 95% CI 0.84-3.56, p = 0.132) and low HDL (OR 1.78, 95% CI 0.68-4.65, p = 0.279) were not associated with increased odds for sICH. Likewise, neither mortality nor functional outcome at 3 months was significantly associated with any of the lipid variables in the univariable analysis following Bonferroni adjustment for multiple comparisons. The same results were found in the multivariable analysis adjusting for imbalances in baseline characteristics.

CONCLUSIONS

In contrast to previous studies, we found that in stroke patients receiving thrombolysis therapy, neither the lipid profile nor prior statin use were associated with increased odds for sICH, functional outcome or mortality at 3 months.

MRI in Patients with Acute Basilar Artery Occlusion – DWI Lesion Scoring is an Independent Predictor of Outcome

Aims

We analyzed early diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging of patients with acute basilar artery occlusion by applying different lesion scoring systems and determined their predictive value for favorable outcome.

Methods

Between 1998 and 2010, patients with confirmed basilar artery occlusion were entered in a local database. magnetic resonance imaging angiography was performed for diagnosis of basilar artery occlusion and/or during initiated recanalization therapy. We analyzed the patients’ clinical and radiological baseline data, recanalization, and favorable outcome modified Rankin Scale 0–2 after three-months. Diffusion weighted imaging findings were categorized into lesions in vascular territories as well as by two previously published scores for ischemic damage in the posterior circulation, the Renard score and posterior circulation Acute Stroke Prognosis Early computed tomography Score.

Results

Fifty patients with basilar artery occlusion received an early MRI, and in 30 of those, a follow-up MRI was performed. Median time to baseline MRI was 5·5 h (one-hour to 24 h). Median baseline Renard score and posterior circulation Acute Stroke Prognosis Early CT Score were 2·75 (0–10) and 7 (0–10), respectively. Of the patients, 82% received an acute recanalization therapy and in 78% of those, the basilar artery recanalized. Median time to therapy was five-hours (1·25–20 h). 24% of all patients had a favorable outcome (mRS 0–2). Patients with a favorable outcome had a lower Renard score and higher pcASPECTS, a lower rate of complete basilar artery occlusion, a higher Glasgow coma scale on admission, and a higher rate of successful recanalization (all P < 0·05). After logistic regression, the only independent predictor for favorable outcome was a posterior circulation Acute Stroke Prognosis Early CT Score of 8 or more points (odds ratio 3·9, 95% confidence interval 1·4–11·7, P < 0·05).

Conclusion

In patients with acute basilar artery occlusion, posterior circulation Acute Stroke Prognosis Early CT Score of 8 or more points on early diffusion weighted imaging is an independent predictor for favorable outcome.

Improved prediction of poor outcome after thrombolysis using conservative definitions of symptomatic hemorrhage

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Direct comparison of symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH) rates among different thrombolysis studies is complicated by the variability of definitions of sICH. The prediction of outcome still remains unclear.

METHODS

Baseline data and clinical courses of patients treated with thrombolytic therapy were collected in a prospective database. The 3-month outcome was evaluated using the modified Rankin Scale. Results of 24-hour follow-up imaging were reevaluated by at least 2 independent raters. Four common definitions of sICH (National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke [NINDS], European Cooperative Acute Stroke Study [ECASS] 2, Safe Implementation of Thrombolysis in Stroke [SITS], ECASS 3) were applied. Kappa interrater statistics were calculated. Our objective was to find the sICH definition with the highest predictive value for mortality, poor (modified Rankin Scale 5 or 6) and unfavorable (modified Rankin Scale ≥3) clinical outcome after 90 days.

RESULTS

The data of 314 patients were analyzed. The NINDS definition revealed the highest sICH rate (7.7%); the lowest rate was found for the ECASS 3 definition (3.2%) of sICH. The highest interrater agreement was found for the ECASS 2 definition (κ 0.85) and the lowest for the NINDS definition (κ 0.57). Patients with sICH according to the SITS definition had the highest risk for death (OR, 14.4) and poor outcome (OR, 26.6).

CONCLUSIONS

None of the different definitions contains an optimal combination of prediction of mortality and outcome and a high interrater agreement rate. For the clinical evaluation of mortality, we recommend using the SITS definition; for studies needing a high interrater agreement rate, we recommend using the ECASS 2 definition. Due to the lack of 1 single optimal definition, future thrombolytic trials should preferably use different definitions.

Is the Maximum Dose of 90 mg Alteplase Sufficient for Patients With Ischemic Stroke Weighing >100 kg?

Background and Purpose—

Intravenous alteplase for acute ischemic stroke has a maximum dose limit of 90 mg. Consequently, patients >100 kg body weight receive a lower per-kilogram dose compared with those ≤100 kg. We investigated if the lower per-kilogram dose is associated with poor early neurological improvement and worse outcome after thrombolysis.

Methods—

Of 27 910 patients registered in Safe Implementation of Treatment in Stroke–International Stroke Thrombolysis Register (SITS-ISTR; 2002 to 2009), 1190 (4.3%) weighed >100 kg. Major neurological improvement was used to estimate recanalization (National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale improvement ≥8 points or score of 0 at 24 hours). Outcome measures included symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale deterioration ≥4 points within 24 hours and Type 2 parenchymal hemorrhage), functional independence (modified Rankin Scale 0 to 2), and mortality at 3 months.

Results—

Patients >100 kg received a lower per-kilogram alteplase dose (0.82 versus 0.90, P <0.001), were younger (62 versus 70 years, P <0.001), had a lower baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (10 versus 12, P <0.001), but more frequently had cardiovascular risk factors. Major neurological improvement at 24 hours occurred in 27.7% in both groups. Symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage occurred in 2.6% versus 1.7% ( P =0.03) in >100 kg versus ≤100 kg. Functional independence was 59.7% versus 53.6% ( P <0.001) and mortality was 14.4% versus 15.1% ( P =0.54). After adjustment for baseline characteristics, there was no significant difference for major neurological improvement or functional independence between >100 kg and ≤100 kg, but >100-kg patients had a higher odds ratio for symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (OR, 1.6; 95% CI, 1.06 to 2.41; P =0.02) and mortality (OR, 1.37; 95% CI, 1.08 to 1.74; P =0.01).

Conclusions—

Our results support the current upper dose limit. There was a higher incidence of symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage in patients >100 kg despite the lower per-kilogram recombinant tissue plasminogen activator dose. Major neurological improvement and functional independence were similar.