Diffusion-weighted imaging and diagnosis of transient ischemic attack

NeuroMix with MRA: A Fast MR Protocol to Reduce Head and Neck CTA for Patients with Acute Neurologic Presentations

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Overuse of CT-based cerebrovascular imaging in the emergency department and inpatient settings, notably CTA of the head and neck for minor and nonfocal neurologic presentations, stresses imaging services and exposes patients to radiation and contrast. Furthermore, such CT-based imaging is often insufficient for definitive diagnosis, necessitating additional MR imaging. Recent advances in fast MRI may allow timely assessment and a reduced need for head and neck CTA in select populations.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We identified inpatients or patients in the emergency department who underwent CTAHN (including noncontrast and postcontrast head CT, with or without CTP imaging) followed within 24 hours by a 3T MRI study that included a 2.5-minute unenhanced multicontrast sequence (NeuroMix) and a 5-minute intracranial time of flight MRA) during a 9-month period (April to December 2022). Cases were classified by 4 radiologists in consensus as to whether NeuroMix and NeuroMix + MRA detected equivalent findings, detected unique findings, or missed findings relative to CTAHN.

RESULTS

One hundred seventy-four cases (mean age, 67 [SD, 16] years; 56% female) met the inclusion criteria. NeuroMix alone and NeuroMix + MRA protocols were determined to be equivalent or better compared with CTAHN in 71% and 95% of patients, respectively. NeuroMix always provided equivalent or better assessment of the brain parenchyma, with unique findings on NeuroMix and NeuroMix + MRA in 35% and 36% of cases, respectively, most commonly acute infarction or multiple microhemorrhages. In 8/174 cases (5%), CTAHN identified vascular abnormalities not seen on the NeuroMix + MRA protocol due to the wider coverage of the cervical arteries by CTAHN.

CONCLUSIONS

A fast MR imaging protocol consisting of NeuroMix + MRA provided equivalent or better information compared with CTAHN in 95% of cases in our population of patients with an acute neurologic presentation. The findings provide a deeper understanding of the benefits and challenges of a fast unenhanced MR-first approach with NeuroMix + MRA, which could be used to design prospective trials in select patient groups, with the potential to reduce radiation dose, mitigate adverse contrast-related patient and environmental effects, and lessen the burden on radiologists and health care systems.

An Alternative Photothrombotic Model of Transient Ischemic Attack

Animal models mimicking human transient ischemic attack (TIA) and cerebral microinfarcts are essential tools for studying their pathogenetic mechanisms and finding methods of their treatment. Despite its advantages, the model of single arteriole photothrombosis requires complex experimental equipment and highly invasive surgery, which may affect the results of further studies. Hence, to achieve high translational potential, we focused on developing a TIA model based on photothrombosis of arterioles to combine good reproducibility and low invasiveness. For the first time, noninvasive laser speckle contrast imaging (LSCI) was used to monitor blood flow in cerebral arterioles and reperfusion was achieved. We demonstrate that irradiation of mouse cerebral cortical arterioles using a 532-nm laser with a 1-mm-wide beam at 2.4 or 3.7 mW for 55 or 40 s, respectively, after 15 mg/kg intravenous Rose Bengal administration, induces similar ischemia-reperfusion lesions resulting in microinfarct formation. The model can be used to study the pathogenesis of spontaneously developing cerebral microinfarcts in neurodegeneration. Reducing the exposure times by 10 s while maintaining the same other parameters caused photothrombosis of the arteriole with reperfusion in less than 1 h. This mode of photodynamic exposure caused cellular and subcellular level ischemic changes in neurons and promoted the activation of astrocytes and microglia in the first day after irradiation, but not later, without the formation of microinfarcts. This mode of photodynamic exposure most accurately reproduced human TIA, characterized by the absence of microinfarcts.

ABCD2-I Score Predicts Unplanned Emergency Department Revisits within 72 Hours Due to Recurrent Acute Ischemic Stroke

BACKGROUND

the ABCD2 score is valuable for predicting early stroke recurrence after a transient ischemic attack (TIA), and Doppler ultrasound can aid in expediting stroke triage. The study aimed to investigate whether combining the ABCD2 score with carotid duplex results can enhance the identification of early acute ischemic stroke after TIA.

METHODS

we employed a retrospective cohort design for this study, enrolling patients diagnosed with TIA who were discharged from the emergency department (ED). The modified ABCD2-I (c50) score, which incorporates a Doppler ultrasound assessment of internal carotid artery stenosis > 50%, was used to evaluate the risk of acute ischemic stroke within 72 h. Patients were categorized into three risk groups: low risk (with ABCD2 and ABCD2-I scores = 0-4), moderate risk (ABCD2 score = 4-5 and ABCD2-I score = 5-7), and high risk (ABCD2 score = 6-7 and ABCD2-I score = 8-9).

RESULTS

between 1 January 2014, and 31 December 2019, 1124 patients with new neurological deficits were screened, with 151 TIA patients discharged from the ED and included in the analysis. Cox proportional hazards analysis showed that patients in the high-risk group, as per the ABCD2-I (c50) score, were significantly associated with revisiting the ED within 72 h due to acute ischemic stroke (HR: 3.12, 95% CI: 1.31-7.41, p = 0.0102), while the ABCD2 alone did not show significant association (HR: 1.12, 95% CI: 0.57-2.22, p = 0.7427).

CONCLUSION

ABCD2-I (c50) scores effectively predict early acute ischemic stroke presentations to the ED within 72 h after TIA.

A systematic review of the incidence and outcomes of ICD-11 defined stroke

BACKGROUND

The World Health Organisation has expanded the definition of stroke to include people with symptoms less than 24 h if they have evidence of stroke on neuroimaging. The impact is that people previously diagnosed as having a transient ischaemic attack (TIA) would now be considered to have had a stroke. This change will impact incidence and outcomes of stroke and increase eligibility for secondary prevention. We aimed to evaluate the new ICD-11 criteria retrospectively to previous TIA studies to understand the change in incidence and outcomes of this type of stroke.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review of observational studies of the incidence and outcomes of clinically defined TIA. We searched PubMed, EMBASE, and Google Scholar from inception to 23rd May 2023. Study quality was assessed using a risk of bias tool for prevalence studies.

FINDINGS

Our review included 25 studies. The rate of scan positivity for stroke among those with clinically defined TIA was 24 %, (95 % CI, 16-33 %) but with high heterogeneity (I2 = 100 %, p <0.001). Sensitivity analyses provided evidence that heterogeneity could be explained by methodology and recruitment method. The scan positive rate when examining only studies at low risk of bias was substantially lower, at 13 % (95 % CI, 11-15 %, I2 = 0, p = 0.77). We estimate from population-based incidence studies that ICD-11 would result in an increase stroke incidence between 4.8 and 10.5 per 100,000 persons/year. Of those with DWI-MRI evidence of stroke, 6 % (95 % CI, 3-11 %) developed a recurrent stroke in the subsequent 90 days, but with substantial heterogeneity (I2 = 67 %, p = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

The impact of the ICD-11 change in stroke definition on incidence and outcomes may have been overestimated by individual studies. Community-based stroke services with access to DWI MRI are likely to accurately diagnose greater numbers of people with mild ICD-11 stroke, increasing access to effective prevention.

Ninety-Day Stroke Recurrence in Minor Stroke: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Trials and Observational Studies

BACKGROUND

Risk of recurrence after minor ischemic stroke is usually reported with transient ischemic attack. No previous meta-analysis has focused on minor ischemic stroke alone. The objective was to evaluate the pooled proportion of 90-day stroke recurrence for minor ischemic stroke, defined as a National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale severity score of ≤5.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Published papers found on PubMed from 2000 to January 12, 2021, reference lists of relevant articles, and experts in the field were involved in identifying relevant studies. Randomized controlled trials and observational studies describing minor stroke cohort with reported 90-day stroke recurrence were selected by 2 independent reviewers. Altogether 14 of 432 (3.2%) studies met inclusion criteria. Multilevel random-effects meta-analysis was performed. A total of 6 randomized controlled trials and 8 observational studies totaling 45 462 patients were included. The pooled 90-day stroke recurrence was 8.6% (95% CI, 6.5-10.7), reducing by 0.60% (95% CI, 0.09-1.1; P=0.02) with each subsequent year of publication. Recurrence was lowest in dual antiplatelet trial arms (6.3%, 95% CI, 4.5-8.0) when compared with non-dual antiplatelet trial arms (7.2%, 95% CI, 4.7-9.6) and observational studies 10.6% (95% CI, 7.0-14.2). Age, hypertension, diabetes, ischemic heart disease, or known atrial fibrillation had no significant association with outcome. Defining minor stroke with a lower National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale threshold made no difference - score ≤3: 8.6% (95% CI, 6.0-11.1), score ≤4: 8.4% (95% CI, 6.1-10.6), as did excluding studies with n<500%-7.3% (95% CI, 5.5-9.0).

CONCLUSIONS

The risk of recurrence after minor ischemic stroke is declining over time but remains important.

Epidemiology of transient ischemic attack in the normandy stroke population-based study

INTRODUCTION

Transient ischemic attack (TIA) is a frequent neurological emergency which management and definition have changed radically over the last 15 years. However, recent epidemiological studies of TIA are scarce. We report here on the impact of the shift from a time-based to a tissue-based definition of TIA on its incidence and risk of recurrence in a new population-based cohort with a high rate of patients investigated by MRI.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We prospectively included all TIAs that occurred between May 2017 and May 2021 from the Normandy Stroke Study, a population-based registry using multiple overlapping sources for exhaustive case identification in Caen la Mer area. TIAs were classified as either time-based (symptoms <24 h) or tissue-based (<24 h and no lesion on brain imaging). Attack and incidence rates were calculated, as was the 90-day ischemic stroke rate.

RESULTS

Five hundred and sixty-seven TIAs (549 single patients) were included, with 80.6% having a brain MRI. Four hundred and ten (72.3%) met the definition of tissue-based TIA. The age standardized attack (to the 2013 European population) rate was 39.5 (95% CI 35.7-43.5) and the age-standardized incidence rate (first ever cerebrovascular event) was 29.7 (95% CI 27.3-34.2). The overall recurrent stroke rate at 90 days was 2.7%, with no difference between patients with or without ischemic lesions on MRI.

CONCLUSION

We found that the use of the tissue-based definition of TIA resulted in a 27.5% reduction in incidence as compared to the time-based definition, but had no impact on the 90-day stroke rate. The burden of TIA remains high, and is likely to increase as the population ages.

Comparison of Dual Antiplatelet Therapies for Minor, Nondisabling, Acute Ischemic Stroke: A Bayesian Network Meta-Analysis

Importance

Dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) appears to be an effective treatment option for minor (nondisabling) acute ischemic stroke. This conclusion is based on trials that include both transient ischemic attack (TIA) and minor stroke; however, these 2 conditions may differ.

Objective

To compare DAPT regimens specifically for minor stroke.

Data Sources

PubMed was searched for randomized clinical trials published up to November 4, 2023. Search terms strategy included TIA, transient ischemic attack, minor stroke, or moderate stroke, with the filter randomized controlled trial. Unpublished data on minor stroke were sourced from authors and/or institutions.

Study Selection

Trials testing DAPT within the first 24 hours of a minor stroke (defined as a National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score ≤5) were included by consensus. Of 1508 studies screened, 6 (0.3%) initially met inclusion criteria and were reviewed.

Data Extraction and Synthesis

The study was performed according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines by multiple observers. Bayesian fixed-effect network meta-analysis was conducted. Secondary analysis performed for high-risk TIA alone.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Treatments were ranked using a probability measure called surface under the cumulative rank curve (SUCRA). The primary outcome was subsequent ischemic stroke at 90 days. Secondary outcomes included major hemorrhage, mortality, and hemorrhagic stroke. The number needed to treat (NNT) and number needed to harm (NNH) were obtained.

Results

Five trials were included that described 28 148 patients, of whom 22 203 (78.9%) had a minor stroke. Of these, 13 995 (63.0%) were in DAPT groups and 8208 (37.0%) in aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) groups. Aspirin and ticagrelor had a 94% probability of being the superior treatment for minor stroke (SUCRA, 0.94) for the primary outcome. Both aspirin and ticagrelor (NNT, 40; 95% CI, 31-64) and aspirin and clopidogrel (NNT, 58; 95% CI, 39-136) were superior to aspirin alone in the prevention of recurrent ischemic stroke at 90 days. Both treatments had higher rates of major hemorrhage than aspirin alone (NNH for aspirin and ticagrelor, 284; 95% CI, 108-1715 vs NNH for aspirin and clopidogrel, 330; 95% CI, 118-3430), but neither had increased risk of hemorrhagic stroke or death. For high-risk TIA, ticagrelor and aspirin had a 60% probability (SUCRA, 0.60) and clopidogrel and aspirin had a 40% probability (SUCRA 0.40) of being a superior treatment; neither was optimum, but both were superior to aspirin alone for the primary outcome.

Conclusions and Relevance

These findings suggest that DAPT with aspirin and ticagrelor has higher probability of being the superior treatment among patients with minor stroke when presence of CYP2C19 loss-of-function alleles has not been excluded. For patients with TIA, the superiority of aspirin and ticagrelor vs aspirin and clopidogrel was not demonstrated.

Presenting Symptoms and Diffusion-Weighted MRI Positivity by Time After Transient Neurologic Events: A Pooled Analysis of 3 Cohort Studies

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

The association between focal vs nonfocal presenting symptom and diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) positivity in relation to onset-to-imaging time in patients with transient neurologic events remains unclear. We hypothesize that episodes consisting of focal symptoms would have proportionally higher DWI-positive imaging at later onset-to-imaging times.

METHODS

Patients with transient neurologic symptoms and a normal neurologic examination who had DWI in the combined data set of 3 cohort studies were included. We used logistic regression models to evaluate the association between each type of presenting symptom (motor weakness, speech impairment, sensory symptoms, vision loss, diplopia, gait instability, dizziness, headache, presyncope, and amnesia) and DWI positivity after adjusting for clinical variables (age, sex, history of stroke, dyslipidemia, coronary artery disease, atrial fibrillation, symptoms duration [<10, 10-59, ≥60 minutes, or unclear], and study source). We stratified the results by onset-to-imaging time categories (<6 hours, 6-23 hours, and ≥24 hours).

RESULTS

Of the total 2,411 patients (1,345 male, median age 68 years), DWI-positive lesions were detected in 598 patients (24.8%). The prevalence of DWI positivity was highest in those with motor weakness (34.7%), followed by speech impairment (33.5%). In a multivariable analysis, the presence of motor weakness, speech impairment, and sensory symptoms was associated with DWI positivity, while vision loss and headache were associated with lower odds of DWI positivity, but nevertheless had 13.6% and 15.3% frequency of DWI positive. The odds of being DWI positive varied by onset-to-imaging time categories for motor weakness, with greater odds of being DWI positive at later imaging time (<6 hours: odds ratio [OR] 1.25, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.84-1.87; 6-23 hours: OR 2.24, 95% CI 1.47-3.42; and ≥24 hours: OR 2.42, 95% CI 1.74-3.36; interaction p = 0.033). Associations of other symptoms with DWI positivity did not vary significantly by time categories.

DISCUSSION

We found that onset-to-imaging time influences the relationship between motor weakness and DWI positivity in patients with transient neurologic events. Compared with motor, speech, and sensory symptoms, visual or nonfocal symptoms carry a lower but still a substantive association with DWI positivity.

Modeling transient ischemic attack via photothrombosis

The health significance of transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) is largely underestimated. Often, TIAs are not given significant importance, and in vain, because TIAs are a predictor of the development of serious cardiovascular diseases and even death. Because of this, and because of the difficulty in diagnosing the disease, TIAs and related microinfarcts are poorly investigated. Photothrombotic models of stroke and TIA allow reproducing the occlusion of small brain vessels, even single ones. When dosing the concentration of photosensitizer, intensity and irradiation time, it is possible to achieve occlusion of well-defined small vessels with high reproducibility, and with the help of modern methods of blood flow assessment it is possible to achieve spontaneous restoration of blood flow without vessel rupture. In this review, we discuss the features of microinfarcts and the contemporary experimental approaches used to model TIA and microinfarcts, with an emphasis on models using the principle of photothrombosis of brain vessels. We review modern techniques for in vivo detection of blood flow in small brain vessels, as well as biomarkers of microinfarcts.

Follow-Up Diffusion-Weighted Image Reveals Delayed Appearance of Ischemic Lesions in Suspected Transient Ischemic Attack

INTRODUCTION

In patients suspected of transient ischemic attack (TIA), it is not uncommon to find no lesion on the diffusion-weighted image (DWI) on admission but a delayed appearance on the follow-up DWI.

METHODS

Enrolled patients met the following criteria: (1) MRI performed within 24 hours of onset and seven days after admission; (2) National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score ≦4 on admission; (3) pre-stroke modified Rankin scale (mRS) score of 0-1. Patients were divided as follows: no lesion on the first DWI and a new lesion on the second DWI (delayed-specified ischemic stroke; DSIS); and no lesion on either the first or second DWI (well-screened TIA; WSTIA). We compared both groups regarding the clinical background and the outcome at three months.

RESULTS

We identified 144 cases (male 70%; median age 64 years; DSIS, n=34) between October 2012 and March 2019. DSIS was older (71 vs. 60 years, p=0.006) and had a higher NIHSS score on admission (1 vs. 0, p=0.041), a higher rate of large vessel occlusion (LVO) (17% vs. 2%, p=0.008), and symptom duration over one hour (82% vs. 64%, p=0.041). A favorable outcome mRS score of 0-1 at three months was less frequent in DSIS (85% vs. 96%, p=0.004). Age/10 (OR 1.62, 95%CI 1.17-2.24; p=0.004) and LVO (OR 10.84, 95%CI 1.87-63.06; p=0.008) were independent factors for DSIS.

CONCLUSIONS

In suspected TIA with age or LVO but no lesion in the initial DWI, the second DWI should be considered to identify the delayed appearance of an ischemic stroke.

Ischemic stroke recurrence and mortality in different imaging phenotypes of ischemic cerebrovascular disease: The SMART-MR Study

Background:

Diagnosis of cerebrovascular disease is based on both clinical and radiological findings, however, they do not always correlate.

Aims:

To investigate ischemic stroke recurrence and mortality in patients with different imaging phenotypes of ischemic cerebrovascular disease.

Methods:

Within the SMART-MR study, a prospective patient cohort with arterial disease, cerebrovascular diseases of participants at baseline were classified as no cerebrovascular disease (reference group, n = 828), symptomatic cerebrovascular disease ( n = 204), covert vascular lesions ( n = 156), or imaging negative ischemia ( n = 90) based upon clinical and MRI findings. Ischemic strokes and deaths were collected at 6 month-intervals up to 17 years of follow-up. With Cox regression, relationships between phenotype and ischemic stroke recurrence, cardiovascular mortality, and non-vascular mortality were studied adjusted for age, sex, and cardiovascular risk factors.

Results:

Compared to reference group risk for recurrent ischemic stroke was increased not only in the symptomatic cerebrovascular disease (HR 3.9, 95% CI 2.3–6.6), but also in the covert vascular lesion (HR 2.5, 95% CI 1.3–4.8) and the imaging negative ischemia groups (HR 2.4, 95% CI 1.1–5.5). Risk for cardiovascular mortality was increased in the symptomatic cerebrovascular disease (HR 2.2, 95% CI 1.5–3.2) and covert vascular lesions groups (HR 2.3, 95% CI 1.5–3.4), while the risk was less strong but also increased in the imaging negative ischemia group (HR 1.7, 95% CI 0.9–3.0).

Conclusions:

People with all imaging phenotypes of cerebrovascular disease have increased risk of recurrent ischemic stroke and mortality compared to other arterial diseases. Strict preventive measures should be performed even when imaging findings or clinical symptoms are absent.

Data access statement:

For use of anonymized data, a reasonable request has to be made in writing to the UCC-SMART study group and the third party has to sign a confidentiality agreement.

Clinical Diagnosis and Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Patients With Transient and Minor Neurological Symptoms: A Prospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

The utility of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) brain in patients with transient or minor neurological symptoms is uncertain. We sought to determine the proportion of participants with transient or minor neurological symptoms who had MRI evidence of acute ischemia at different clinical probabilities of transient ischemic attack (TIA) or minor stroke.

METHODS

Cohort of participants with transient or minor neurological symptoms from emergency and outpatient settings. Clinicians at different levels of training gave each participant a diagnostic probability (probable when TIA/stroke was the most likely differential diagnosis; possible when TIA/stroke was not the most likely differential diagnosis; or uncertain when diagnostic probability could not be given) before 1.5 or 3T brain MRI ≤5 days from onset. Post hoc, each clinical syndrome was defined blind to MRI findings as National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke criteria TIA/stroke; International Headache Society criteria migraine aura; non-TIA focal symptoms; or nonfocal symptoms. MRI evidence of acute ischemia was defined by 2 reads of MRI. Stroke was ascertained for at least 90 days and up to 18 months after recruitment.

RESULTS

Two hundred seventy-two participated (47% female, mean age 60, SD 14), 58% with MRI ≤2 days of onset. Most (92%) reported focal symptoms. MR evidence of acute ischemia was found, for stroke/TIA clinical probabilities of probable 23 out of 75 (31% [95% CI, 21%-42%]); possible 26 out of 151 (17% [12%-24%]); and uncertain 9 out of 43, (20% [10%-36%]). MRI evidence of acute ischemia was found in National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke criteria TIA/stroke 40 out of 95 (42% [32%-53%]); migraine aura 4 out of 38 (11% [3%-25%]); non-TIA focal symptoms 16 out of 99 (16% [10%-25%]); and no focal features 1 out of 29 (3% [0%-18%]). After MRI, a further 14 (5% [95% CI, 3-8]) would be treated with an antiplatelet drug compared with treatment plan before MRI. By 18 months, a new ischemic stroke occurred in 9 out of 61 (18%) patients with MRI evidence of acute ischemia and 2 out of 211 (1%) without (age-adjusted hazard ratio, 13 [95% CI, 3-62]; P<0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

MRI evidence of acute brain ischemia was found in about 1 in 6 transient or minor neurological symptoms patients with a nonstroke/TIA initial diagnosis or uncertain diagnosis. Methods to determine the clinical and cost-effectiveness of MRI are needed in this population.

Incidence of first-ever transient ischemic attack in Eastern Finland

OBJECTIVES

The incidence of stroke has been declining in Finland, as well as in Europe. However, it is unclear whether the incidence of transient ischemic attack (TIA) is also decreasing. In fact, the TIA incidence in the Finnish population has never been reported. Therefore, here we investigated the incidence of TIA in the Eastern Finnish population in 2017.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

All patients with suspected TIA, from a defined catchment area, were referred to a neurological emergency unit at Kuopio University Hospital (KUH) in the Northern Savonia region of Eastern Finland, which had a population of 246,653 in 2017. The original study population comprised TIA patients diagnosed based on the WHO TIA criteria in 2017. Incidence rates were calculated by dividing the number of TIA cases by the number of people in different age groups.

RESULTS

Among 432 patients with a suspected TIA referred to the neurological emergency unit at Kuopio University Hospital in 2017, 293 were living in Northern Savonia and were ultimately diagnosed with TIA after neurological examinations. The number of first-ever TIAs was 211. The crude incidence of all TIA was 122/100,000 inhabitants, and of first-ever TIA was 86/100,000. The age-standardized incidence (European population 2010) of the first-ever TIA was calculated to be 64/100,000. The mean age of first-ever TIA patients was 70 years: 72 years for women versus 68 years for men.

CONCLUSIONS

We found a high incidence of TIA in Eastern Finland.

Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics-2022 Update: A Report From the American Heart Association

BACKGROUND

The American Heart Association, in conjunction with the National Institutes of Health, annually reports the most up-to-date statistics related to heart disease, stroke, and cardiovascular risk factors, including core health behaviors (smoking, physical activity, diet, and weight) and health factors (cholesterol, blood pressure, and glucose control) that contribute to cardiovascular health. The Statistical Update presents the latest data on a range of major clinical heart and circulatory disease conditions (including stroke, congenital heart disease, rhythm disorders, subclinical atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, heart failure, valvular disease, venous disease, and peripheral artery disease) and the associated outcomes (including quality of care, procedures, and economic costs).

METHODS

The American Heart Association, through its Statistics Committee, continuously monitors and evaluates sources of data on heart disease and stroke in the United States to provide the most current information available in the annual Statistical Update. The 2022 Statistical Update is the product of a full year's worth of effort by dedicated volunteer clinicians and scientists, committed government professionals, and American Heart Association staff members. This year's edition includes data on the monitoring and benefits of cardiovascular health in the population and an enhanced focus on social determinants of health, adverse pregnancy outcomes, vascular contributions to brain health, and the global burden of cardiovascular disease and healthy life expectancy.

RESULTS

Each of the chapters in the Statistical Update focuses on a different topic related to heart disease and stroke statistics.

CONCLUSIONS

The Statistical Update represents a critical resource for the lay public, policymakers, media professionals, clinicians, health care administrators, researchers, health advocates, and others seeking the best available data on these factors and conditions.

Attack Interval Is the Key to the Likely Pathogenesis of Multiple Transient Ischemic Attacks

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that the attack interval of multiple transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) is correlated with the underlying pathogenesis of ischemia.

METHODS

Patients with multiple TIAs, defined as 2 or more motor deficits within 7 days, were studied. The attack interval between the last 2 episodes was classified into 3 groups: 2 episodes within an hour (Hour group), over hours within a day (Day group), and over days within a week (Week group). Patients with a lacunar syndrome, no cortical lesions, and no embolic sources were recognized as having a small vessel disease (SVD) etiology for their multiple events.

RESULTS

Of 312 TIA patients admitted over a 9-year period, 50 (37 males, 13 females, mean 67.6 years) had multiple TIAs. Twelve patients were classified as being within the Hour group, 23 within the Day group, and 15 within the Week group. Lacunar syndromes were observed in 30 (75%, 35%, and 67%), embolic sources were detected in 28 (25%, 65%, and 67%), and a high signal lesion on diffusion-weighted imaging was depicted in 30 (75%, 48%, and 67%) patients (18 cortical, 11 subcortical, and one cerebellar). Patients in the Hour group had a significantly higher prevalence of SVD etiology (75%) than those in the Day and Week groups (30%, p = 0.0165; 27%, p = 0.0213, respectively). Four patients had a subsequent stroke within 7 days.

CONCLUSION

Attack intervals of multiple TIAs may be correlated with the underlying pathogenesis of ischemia. Two motor deficits within an hour are more likely to suggest a SVD etiology.

Assessment of patients with a suspected cardioembolic ischemic stroke. A national consensus statement

OBJECTIVES

Several cardiovascular, structural, and functional abnormalities have been considered as potential causes of cardioembolic ischemic strokes. Beyond atrial fibrillation, other sources of embolism clearly exist and may warrant urgent action, but they are only a minor part of the many stroke mechanisms and strokes that seem to be of embolic origin remain without a determined source. The associations between stroke and findings like atrial fibrillation, valve calcification, or heart failure are confounded by co-existing risk factors for atherosclerosis and vascular disease. In addition, a patent foramen ovale which is a common abnormality in the general population is mostly an innocent bystander in patients with ischemic stroke. For these reasons, experts from the national Danish societies of cardiology, neurology, stroke, and neuroradiology sought to develop a consensus document to provide national recommendations on how to manage patients with a suspected cardioembolic stroke. Design: Comprehensive literature search and analyses were done by a panel of experts and presented at a consensus meeting. Evidence supporting each subject was vetted by open discussion and statements were adjusted thereafter. Results: The most common sources of embolic stroke were identified, and the statement provides advise on how neurologist can identify cases that need referral, and what is expected by the cardiologist. Conclusions: A primary neurological and neuroradiological assessment is mandatory and neurovascular specialists should manage the initiation of secondary prophylactic treatment. If a cardioembolic stroke is suspected, a dedicated cardiologist experienced in the management of cardioembolism should provide a tailored clinical and echocardiographic assessment.

Association of Ischemic Imaging Phenotype With Progression of Brain Atrophy and Cerebrovascular Lesions on MRI: The SMART-MR Study

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association of silent vascular lesions, imaging negative ischemia, and symptomatic cerebrovascular disease with long-term progression of brain atrophy and cerebrovascular lesions in patients with arterial disease.

METHODS

Within the SMART-MR study, stroke status of participants at baseline was classified as no cerebrovascular disease (reference group, n=829), symptomatic cerebrovascular disease (n=206), silent vascular lesion (n=157), and imaging negative ischemia (n=90) based upon clinical and MRI findings. Using linear mixed models, changes in brain and white matter hyperintensity (WMH) volumes at baseline and during 12 years of follow-up were studied in stroke classifications. Relative risks were estimated for new infarcts during follow-up associated with stroke classifications. Analyses were adjusted for age, sex, cardiovascular risk factors, and medications.

RESULTS

Symptomatic cerebrovascular disease associated with 0.35 SDs (95%CI 0.24-0.47) smaller brain volume and 0.61 SDs (95%CI 0.48-0.74) larger WMH volume at baseline, and increased risk for new infarcts during follow-up (risk ratio (RR) 2.89; 95%CI 2.00-4.16). Silent vascular lesions associated with 0.15 SDs (95%CI 0.01-0.88) smaller brain volume, 0.02 SDs (95%CI 0.01-0.03) steeper brain atrophy slope, and 0.48 SDs (95%CI 0.32-0.64) larger WMH volume at baseline, in addition to increased risk for lacunes (RR 2.08; 95%CI 1.48-2.94). Individuals with imaging negative ischemia had increased risk for cortical infarcts (RR=2.88; 95%CI 2.17-3.82).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with symptomatic cerebrovascular disease, silent vascular lesions, or imaging negative ischemia have different course of brain volume loss and cerebrovascular lesions development. These findings may have implications for future stroke risk and dementia and need further investigation.

Altered Functional Connectivity and Cognition Persists 4 Years After a Transient Ischemic Attack or Minor Stroke

Background and Purpose: Altered executive functions and resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) are common following a minor stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA). However, the long-term persistence of these abnormalities is not well-studied. We investigated whether there were cognitive and rsFC differences between (a) controls and minor cerebrovascular event (CVE) patients and (b) between CVE patients with and without an imaging confirmed infarct (i.e., minor stroke and TIA, respectively) at an average of 3.8 years following their event.

Methods: Structural and resting-state imaging and cognitive assessments including the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, the Trail Making Task and the National Institute of Health (NIH) Cognition Toolbox were conducted on 42 patients (minor stroke = 17, TIA = 25) and 20 healthy controls (total N = 62).

Results: Controls performed better than patients on two measures of executive functioning (both p < 0.046) and had reduced rsFC between the frontoparietal and default mode networks (FPN and DMN, respectively; p = 0.035). No cognitive differences were found between minor stroke and TIA patients, however, rsFC differences were found within the FPN and the DMN (both p < 0.013). Specifically, increased connectivity within the FPN was associated with faster performance in the minor stroke group but not the TIA group (p = 0.047).

Conclusions: These findings suggest that transient or relatively minor cerebrovascular events are associated with persistent disruption of functional connectivity of neural networks and cognitive performance. These findings suggest a need for novel interventions beyond secondary prevention to reduce the risk of persistent cognitive deficits.

Difference in imaging biomarkers between transient and permanent neurological deficits after endovascular treatment of cerebrovascular aneurysms

OBJECTIVE

The literature suggests that blood-brain barrier disruption (BBBD) plays a significant role in the development of neurological events in patients with diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) that is negative for lesions. In this prospective, single-center cohort study, the authors compared the imaging characteristics of patients suffering transient neurological events (TNEs) with those in patients suffering permanent neurological events (PNEs) after having undergone elective embolization of unruptured intracranial aneurysms.

METHODS

This prospective cohort study was conducted between July 2016 and June 2019. Inclusion criteria were adults undergoing elective neuroendovascular procedures and the absence of contraindications to MRI. All subjects underwent brain MRI including postcontrast FLAIR (pcFLAIR) sequences for evaluation of BBBD within 24 hours postprocedure.

RESULTS

In total, 128 patients harboring 133 unruptured aneurysms were enrolled, 109 of whom (85.2%) showed some degree of BBBD on pcFLAIR MRI and 50 of whom (39.1%) suffered an ischemic insult per DWI. In total, 23 patients (18%) suffered neurological complications, 16 of which (12.5%) were TNEs and 7 of which (5.5%) were PNEs. The median extent of BBBD was focal in asymptomatic patients as compared to hemispheric and lobar in the TNE and PNE groups, respectively (p < 0.001). The American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status classification predicted the extent of BBBD (p = 0.046). Lesions on DWI were noted in 34 asymptomatic patients (32.4%) compared to 9 patients (56.3%) with TNEs and all 7 patients (100%) with PNEs (p < 0.001). The median number of DWI lesions was 0 (range 0-18 lesions) in the asymptomatic group compared to 1.5 (range 0-8 lesions) and 8 (range 1-13 lesions) in the TNE and PNE groups, respectively (p < 0.001). Smoking (p = 0.008), older age (p = 0.002), and longer surgery (p = 0.006) were positively associated with the number of lesions on DWI. On multivariate analysis, intraarterial verapamil (p = 0.02, OR 8.01, 95% CI 1.35-47.43) and extent of BBBD (p < 0.001, OR 58.58, 95% CI 9.48-361.84) were positively associated with the development of TNEs, while intravenous infusion of midazolam during surgery (p = 0.02, OR 6.03, 95% CI 1.29-28.20) was negatively associated. An increased number of lesions on DWI was the only significant predictor for the development of PNEs (p < 0.001, OR 49.85, 95% CI 5.56-447.10).

CONCLUSIONS

An increasing extent of BBBD was associated with the development of TNEs, whereas an increasing number of lesions on DWI was significantly associated with the development of PNEs. BBBD imaging using pcFLAIR may serve as a valuable biomarker for detecting subtle cerebral ischemia and stratifying the risk for ischemic events.

Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Diagnostic Agreement in Suspected TIA

Objective

To determine the interrater variability for TIA diagnostic agreement among expert clinicians (neurologists/stroke physicians), administrative data, and nonspecialists.

Methods

We performed a meta-analysis of studies from January 1984 to January 2019 using MEDLINE, EMBASE, and PubMed. Two reviewers independently screened for eligible studies and extracted interrater variability measurements using Cohen's kappa scores to assess diagnostic agreement.

Results

Nineteen original studies consisting of 19,421 patients were included. Expert clinicians demonstrate good agreement for TIA diagnosis (κ = 0.71, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.62-0.81). Interrater variability between clinicians' TIA diagnosis and administrative data also demonstrated good agreement (κ = 0.68, 95% CI = 0.62-0.74). There was moderate agreement (κ = 0.41, 95% CI = 0.22-0.61) between referring clinicians and clinicians at TIA clinics receiving the referrals. Sixty percent of 748 patient referrals to TIA clinics were TIA mimics.

Conclusions

Overall agreement between expert clinicians was good for TIA diagnosis, although variation still existed for a sizeable proportion of cases. Diagnostic agreement for TIA decreased among nonspecialists. The substantial number of patients being referred to TIA clinics with other (often neurologic) diagnoses was large, suggesting that clinicians, who are proficient in managing TIAs and their mimics, should run TIA clinics.

A Novel Clinical Nomogram to Predict Transient Symptomatic Associated with Infarction: The ABCD3-SLOPE Score

Background

It is hard to differentiate transient symptoms associated with infarction (TSI) from transient ischemic stroke (TIA) without MRI in the early onset. However, they have distinct clinical outcomes and respond differently to therapeutics. Therefore, we aimed to develop a risk prediction model based on the clinical features to identify TSI.

Methods

We enrolled 230 consecutive patients with transient neurologic deficit in the Department of Neurology, Tongji University Affiliated Tenth People's Hospital from March 2014 to October 2019. All the patients were assigned into TIA group (DWI-negative) or TSI group (DWI-positive) based on MRI conducted within five days of onset. We summarized the clinical characteristics of TSI by univariate and multivariate analyses. And then, we developed and validated a nomogram to identify TSI by the logistic regression equation.

Results

Of the 230 patients, 41.3% were diagnosed with TSI. According to the multivariate analysis, four independent risk factors, including smoking history, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, brain natriuretic peptide precursor, and ABCD3 score, were incorporated into a nomogram. We developed a predictive model named ABCD3-SLOPE. The calibration curve showed good agreement between nomogram prediction and observation. The concordance index (C-index) of the nomogram for TSI prediction was 0.77 (95% confidence interval, 0.70-0.83), and it was well-calibrated.

Conclusions

Smoking history, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, brain natriuretic peptide precursor, and ABCD3 score were reliable risk factors for TSI. ABCD3-SLOPE was a potential tool to quantify the likelihood of TSI.

Discriminative Utility of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation-Derived Markers of Cortical Excitability for Transient Ischemic Attack

BACKGROUND

Several guidelines currently recommend acute diffusion weighted imaging (DWI) for the detection of ischemia in transient ischemic attack (TIA). However, DWI hyperintensities resolve early and only 30%-50% with clinically defined TIA show acute DWI positivity. A recent meta-analysis reported an unexplained 7-fold variation in DWI positivity in TIA across studies, concluding that DWI does not provide a consistent basis for defining ischemia. Intracortical excitability, measured using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), has previously been shown to be altered after TIA and associated with ABCD2 scores; however, whether altered cortical excitability is associated with clinical and DWI-based definitions of TIA remains unclear.

METHODS

Individuals with TIA symptoms (N = 23; mean age = 61 ± 12) were prospectively recruited and underwent DWI and paired-pulse TMS. Multivariate linear regression was used to estimate associations between TMS-derived excitability thresholds, and clinical TIA diagnosis, and imaging-based evidence of cerebral ischemia (DWI positivity). Area under the curve (AUC) analyses was used to compare the discriminability of TMS-derived thresholds and clinical TIA diagnoses.

RESULTS

Thresholds for intracortical inhibition in the TIA-unaffected hemisphere were significantly associated with the clinical diagnosis of TIA. No associations between TMS-derived thresholds and DWI positivity were observed. TMS thresholds showed low-moderate discriminability and values differed by age (65+) and sex.

CONCLUSIONS

In this small sample, TMS-derived markers of intracortical excitability were associated with clinical TIA diagnoses but not DWI positivity. Our results provide preliminary evidence for the potential discriminative utility of TMS for the diagnosis of TIA and highlight the need for future work in larger cohorts.

Short-term outcomes of Chinese transient ischaemic attack patients in an Emergency department in Hong Kong: Result of management with an agreed protocol with neurologists

Introduction:

Emergency department management of transient ischaemic attack varies from admission for all to outpatient referral. We studied the short-term outcomes of transient ischaemic attack managed with an agreed protocol. Predictors of stroke can be different for Asians and non-Asians. ABCD2 as initial triage of transient ischaemic attack is debatable. The predictive ability of ABCD2 score was studied as well.

Methods:

This was a prospective observational study with consecutive subject recruitment in Emergency department. All transient ischaemic attacks were admitted, hard and e-records of Emergency department, transient ischaemic attack clinic, Medical and Neurosurgical department and general follow-ups in Hospital Authority hospitals were studied up to 1 year. Stroke-day was measured from symptom-onset to time-of-stroke.

Results:

In 18-month period, 124 patients were recruited. The median onset-to-door time was 3.5 h. All computed tomography brain positive findings, except one subdural haematoma, were ischaemic in origin. Six strokes, all disabling, recurred within 90 days, three on day 1–3, two died in 6 months. The stroke risks at 2, 7, 90 days and 1 year were 1.61%, 3.23%, 4.84% and 4.84%, respectively. No significant trend was observed in stroke risk across ABCD2 scores ( p = 0.783) with area under the curve of 0.537 (95% confidence interval = 0.380–0.694; p = 0.762). The short-term stroke risk was associated with atrial fibrillation ( p = 0.002). The median Emergency Medicine ward length of stay was 1.33 days.

Conclusion:

In our Emergency department–based management, the short-term stroke risk of transient ischaemic attack is low, and the predictivity of ABCD2 score in risk stratification cannot be validated. Stroke recurrences were associated with atrial fibrillation. A low ABCD2 could be falsely reassuring. As half of the strokes recurred very early, we recommend admission in the hyperacute phase.

Neurologic complications of brady-arrhythmias

Brady-arrhythmias are responsible for both overt as well as subtle neurologic signs and symptoms, from the seemingly benign and nonspecific symptoms associated with presyncope, to sudden focal neurologic deficits. A brief background on nodal and infra-nodal brady-arrhythmias is provided, followed by extensive discussion regarding neurologic complications of brady-arrhythmias. The multiple mechanisms of and associations between Brady-arrhythmias and transient ischemic attacks and ischemic stroke are discussed. Controversial associations between brady-arrhythmias and neurologic disease are discussed as well, such as potential roles of brady-arrhythmias in cognitive impairment and sequelae of chronotropic incompetence; and the contribution of brady-arrhythmias to syncope and associated injuries to the nervous system. The chapter is written to stand on its own, with guidance toward other pertinent sections of this text where appropriate for further reading.

Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics-2021 Update: A Report From the American Heart Association

BACKGROUND

The American Heart Association, in conjunction with the National Institutes of Health, annually reports the most up-to-date statistics related to heart disease, stroke, and cardiovascular risk factors, including core health behaviors (smoking, physical activity, diet, and weight) and health factors (cholesterol, blood pressure, and glucose control) that contribute to cardiovascular health. The Statistical Update presents the latest data on a range of major clinical heart and circulatory disease conditions (including stroke, congenital heart disease, rhythm disorders, subclinical atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, heart failure, valvular disease, venous disease, and peripheral artery disease) and the associated outcomes (including quality of care, procedures, and economic costs).

METHODS

The American Heart Association, through its Statistics Committee, continuously monitors and evaluates sources of data on heart disease and stroke in the United States to provide the most current information available in the annual Statistical Update. The 2021 Statistical Update is the product of a full year's worth of effort by dedicated volunteer clinicians and scientists, committed government professionals, and American Heart Association staff members. This year's edition includes data on the monitoring and benefits of cardiovascular health in the population, an enhanced focus on social determinants of health, adverse pregnancy outcomes, vascular contributions to brain health, the global burden of cardiovascular disease, and further evidence-based approaches to changing behaviors related to cardiovascular disease.

RESULTS

Each of the 27 chapters in the Statistical Update focuses on a different topic related to heart disease and stroke statistics.

CONCLUSIONS

The Statistical Update represents a critical resource for the lay public, policy makers, media professionals, clinicians, health care administrators, researchers, health advocates, and others seeking the best available data on these factors and conditions.

Efficacy and Safety of Adjunctive Cilostazol to Clopidogrel-Treated Diabetic Patients With Symptomatic Lower Extremity Artery Disease in the Prevention of Ischemic Vascular Events

Background Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a risk factor for lower extremity arterial disease. Cilostazol expresses antiplatelet, anti-inflammatory, and vasodilator actions and improves the claudication intermittent symptoms. We investigated the efficacy and safety of adjunctive cilostazol to clopidogrel-treated patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus exhibiting symptomatic lower extremity arterial disease, in the prevention of ischemic vascular events and improvement of the claudication intermittent symptoms. Methods and Results In a prospective 2-arm, multicenter, open-label, phase 4 trial, patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus with intermittent claudication receiving clopidogrel (75 mg/d) for at least 6 months, were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio, either to continue to clopidogrel monotherapy, without receiving placebo cilostazol (391 patients), or to additionally receive cilostazol, 100 mg twice/day (403 patients). The median duration of follow-up was 27 months. The primary efficacy end point, the composite of acute ischemic stroke/transient ischemic attack, acute myocardial infarction, and death from vascular causes, was significantly reduced in patients receiving adjunctive cilostazol compared with the clopidogrel monotherapy group (sex-adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 0.468; 95% CI, 0.252-0.870; P=0.016). Adjunctive cilostazol also significantly reduced the stroke/transient ischemic attack events (sex-adjusted HR, 0.38; 95% CI, 0.15-0.98; P=0.046) and improved the ankle-brachial index and pain-free walking distance values (P=0.001 for both comparisons). No significant difference in the bleeding events, as defined by Bleeding Academic Research Consortium criteria, was found between the 2 groups (sex-adjusted HR, 1.080; 95% CI, 0.579-2.015; P=0.809). Conclusions Adjunctive cilostazol to clopidogrel-treated patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus with symptomatic lower extremity arterial disease may lower the risk of ischemic events and improve intermittent claudication symptoms, without increasing the bleeding risk, compared with clopidogrel monotherapy. Registration URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT02983214.

Sex Differences in Diagnosis and Diagnostic Revision of Suspected Minor Cerebral Ischemic Events

OBJECTIVE

To describe sex differences in the presentation, diagnosis, and revision of diagnosis after early brain MRI in patients who present with acute transient or minor neurologic events.

METHODS

We performed a secondary analysis of a prospective multicenter cohort study of patients referred to neurology between 2010 and 2016 with a possible cerebrovascular event and evaluated with brain MRI within 8 days of symptom onset. Investigators documented the characteristics of the event, initial diagnosis, and final diagnosis. We used multivariable logistic regression analyses to evaluate the association between sex and outcomes.

RESULTS

Among 1,028 patients (51% women, median age 63 years), more women than men reported headaches and fewer reported chest pain, but there were no sex differences in other accompanying symptoms. Women were more likely than men to be initially diagnosed with stroke mimic (54% of women vs 42% of men, adjusted odds ratio (OR) 1.60, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.24-2.07), and women were overall less likely to have ischemia on MRI (10% vs 17%, OR 0.52, 95% CI 0.36-0.76). Among 496 patients initially diagnosed with mimic, women were less likely than men to have their diagnosis revised to minor stroke or TIA (13% vs 20%, OR 0.53, 95% CI 0.32-0.88) but were equally likely to have acute ischemia on MRI (5% vs 8%, OR 0.56, 95% CI 0.26-1.21).

CONCLUSIONS

Stroke mimic was more frequently diagnosed in women than men, but diagnostic revisions were common in both. Early brain MRI is a useful addition to clinical evaluation in diagnosing transient or minor neurologic events.

Reduction in Stroke After Transient Ischemic Attack in a Province-Wide Cohort Between 2003 and 2015

BACKGROUND

Improvements in management of transient ischemic attack (TIA) have decreased stroke and mortality post-TIA. Studies examining trends over time on a provincial level are limited. We analyzed whether efforts to improve management have decreased the rate of stroke and mortality after TIA from 2003 to 2015 across an entire province.

METHODS

Using administrative data from the Canadian Institute for Health Information's (CIHI) databases from 2003 to 2015, we identified a cohort of patients with a diagnosis of TIA upon discharge from the emergency department (ED). We examined stroke rates at Day 1, 2, 7, 30, 90, 180, and 365 post-TIA and 1-year mortality rates and compared trends over time between 2003 and 2015.

RESULTS

From 2003 to 2015 in Ontario, there were 61,710 patients with an ED diagnosis of TIA. Linear regressions of stroke after the index TIA showed a significant decline between 2003 and 2015, decreasing by 25% at Day 180 and 32% at 1 year (p < 0.01). The 1-year stroke rate decreased from 6.0% in 2003 to 3.4% in 2015. Early (within 48 h) stroke after TIA continued to represent approximately half of the 1-year event rates. The 1-year mortality rate after ED discharge following a TIA decreased from 1.3% in 2003 to 0.3% in 2015 (p < 0.001).

INTERPRETATION

At a province-wide level, 1-year rates of stroke and mortality after TIA have declined significantly between 2003 and 2015, suggesting that efforts to improve management may have contributed toward the decline in long-term risk of stroke and mortality. Continued efforts are needed to further reduce the immediate risk of stroke following a TIA.

Concurrent intracranial and extracranial artery stenosis and the prognosis of transient ischaemic symptoms or imaging-negative ischaemic stroke

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Transient ischaemic attack (TIA), transient symptoms with infarction (TSI) and diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI)-negative acute ischaemic stroke (AIS) share similar aetiologies but are considered to have a rather benign prognosis. We intended to investigate the association between intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis (ICAS), extracranial atherosclerotic stenosis (ECAS) and the prognosis of patients with TIA, TSI and DWI-negative AIS.

METHODS

Clinical and imaging data of eligible participants were derived from the Chinese Intracranial Atherosclerosis study, according to symptom duration, acute infarction on DWI and discharge diagnosis. Based on the severity and location of arterial atherosclerosis, we categorised the study population into four groups: no or <50% ICAS and no ECAS; ≥50% ICAS but no ECAS; no or <50% ICAS with ECAS; and concurrent ≥50% ICAS and ECAS. Using multivariable Cox regression models, we analysed the relationship between the severity and distribution of large artery atherosclerosis and the prognosis of TIA, TSI and DWI-negative AIS.

RESULTS

A total of 806 patients were included, 67.3% of whom were male. The median age of the study participants was 63 years. Patients in the concurrent ≥50% ICAS and ECAS subgroup had both a significantly higher 1-year recurrence rate (adjusted HR 3.4 (95% CI 1.15 to 10.04), p=0.027) and a higher risk of composite vascular events (adjusted HR 3.82 (95% CI 1.50 to 9.72), p=0.005).

CONCLUSIONS

Concurrent ICAS and ECAS is associated with a higher possibility of 1-year recurrent stroke or composite vascular events. Large artery evaluation is necessary to assess patients with transient ischaemic symptoms or DWI-negative AIS. Progress in shortening the time interval between symptom onset and large vessel evaluation is needed.

The Value of Neurological Assessment for Prediction of Subtle Cerebral Infarction

We examined to what extent clinical assessment alone can predict subtle acute cerebral infarction on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Of the 72 patients presented to the emergency department (ED) with transient neurological deficits, 26 (36.1%) were predicted to be "positive" and 46 (63.9%) "negative" for transient ischemic attack/minor stroke by two independent neurologists. Twenty patients (27.8%) had acute restricted diffusion on MRI. Clinical assessment showed substantial agreement with MRI findings (Kappa = 0.75), sensitivity (95.0%), specificity (86.5%), positive-likelihood ratio 7.06, and negative-likelihood ratio 0.06. Neurological assessment has an excellent predicting value for MRI-confirmed acute cerebral infarction and a key role in the facilitation of effective patient care in the ED.

Risk of acute brain lesions in dizzy patients presenting to the emergency room: who needs imaging and who does not?

The usefulness of brain imaging studies in dizzy patients presenting to the emergency department (ED) is controversial. We aimed to assess the ‘real-world’ probability of ischemic stroke and other acute brain lesions (ABLs) in these patients to create an algorithm that helps decision-making on whether which and when brain imaging is needed. By reviewing medical records, we identified 610 patients presenting with dizziness, vertigo or imbalance to our university hospital’s ED and receiving neurological workup. We collected timing/triggers of symptoms, ABCD² score, focal neurological abnormalities, HINTS (head impulse, nystagmus, test-of-skew) and other central oculomotor signs. ABLs were extracted from CT/MRI reports. Uni-/multivariate logistic regression analyses investigated associations between clinical parameters and ABLs. Finally, the likelihood of ABLs was assessed for different clinically defined subgroups (‘dizziness syndromes’). Early CT (day 1) was performed in 539 (88%) and delayed MR imaging (median: day 4) in 299 (49%) patients. ABLs (89% ischemic stroke) were revealed in 75 (24%) of 318 patients with adequate imaging (MRI or lesion-positive CT). The risk for ABLs increased with the presence of central oculomotor signs (odds ratio 2.8, 95% confidence interval 1.5–5.2) or focal abnormalities (OR 3.3, 95% CI 1.8–6.2). The likelihood of ABLs differed between dizziness syndromes, e.g., HINTS-negative acute vestibular syndrome: 0%, acute imbalance syndrome with ABCD²-score ≥ 4: 50%. We propose a clinical pathway, according to which patients with HINTS-negative acute vestibular syndrome should not receive brain imaging, whereas imaging is suggested in dizzy patients with acute imbalance, central oculomotor signs or focal abnormalities.

Motor impairments in transient ischemic attack increase the odds of a positive diffusion-weighted imaging: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Unilateral motor impairment is a key symptom used in the diagnosis of transient ischemic attack (TIA). Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) is a promising diagnostic tool for detecting ischemic lesions. While both motor impairments and DWI abnormalities are linked to the diagnosis of TIA, the association between these prognostic factors is not well understood.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the association between unilateral motor impairments and the odds of a positive DWI in TIA. Further, to determine whether the time between symptom onset and neuroimaging (delay to scan) influences the odds of a positive DWI.

METHODS

We used PRISMA guidelines to conduct a systematic search from 1989 to 2018. We included studies that reported number of individuals with/without unilateral motor symptoms and a positive/negative DWI.

RESULTS

Twenty-four studies from North America, Australia, Asia, and Europe were submitted to a meta-analysis. A pooled odds ratio of 1.80 (95% CI, 1.45-2.24, p = 0.00; I2 = 57.38) suggested that the odds of a positive DWI are greater in TIA individuals who experience motor symptoms as compared with those who experience no motor symptoms. Further, increasing the time delay to scan from the symptom onset (>2 days) did not influence the odds of a positive DWI as compared with an earlier scan (≤2 days).

CONCLUSIONS

The current meta-analysis provides cumulative evidence from 6710 individuals with TIA that the presence of motor symptoms increases the odds of a positive DWI by two-folds. These findings transform the clinical perception into evidence-based knowledge that motor impairments elevate the risk for brain tissue damage. Unilateral motor impairments in a cerebrovascular event should increase a physician's suspicion of detecting brain infarctions. These findings may influence the clinical management of TIA by generating faster response to motor impairments in TIA and accelerating referral to specialized stroke clinic.

Dysphasia is associated with diffusion-weighted MRI abnormalities in patients with transient neurological symptoms

Background

The clinical characteristics of diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) abnormalities after transient neurological symptoms are of great significance for the early diagnosis and urgent intervention of transient ischemic attack (TIA). This study was aimed to investigate the clinical characteristics associated with acute DWI lesions in transient neurological symptoms.

Methods

We retrospectively recruited 302 patients with transient neurological symptoms. According to DWI findings, they were divided into DWI positive and DWI negative group. The clinical characteristics and the TIA-related scores such as ABCD2, ABCD3, ABCD3I, Dawson score, and the Diagnosis of TIA (DOT) score were compared between the two groups. Logistic regression analysis and receiver operating characteristic curves were used to identify the independent factors and compare the predictive value of different TIA scores for acute DWI lesions.

Results

A total of 302 patients were enrolled in this study. The mean age was 61.8 years, and 67.2% were male. We found 89 (29.5%) patients with DWI positivity. Logistic regression analysis showed the characteristic associated with DWI lesions was dysphasia (OR 2.226, 95% CI 1.220–4.062). The area under the curve for Dawson score and the DOT score was 0.610 (95% CI 0.543–0.678) and 0.625 (95% CI 0.559–0.691), respectively.

Conclusion

We found that DWI lesions were detected in 29.5% of patients with transient neurological symptoms and were associated with dysphasia. Dawson score and DOT score could have a higher predictability of DWI lesions in patients with transient neurological symptoms.

Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics-2020 Update: A Report From the American Heart Association

BACKGROUND

The American Heart Association, in conjunction with the National Institutes of Health, annually reports on the most up-to-date statistics related to heart disease, stroke, and cardiovascular risk factors, including core health behaviors (smoking, physical activity, diet, and weight) and health factors (cholesterol, blood pressure, and glucose control) that contribute to cardiovascular health. The Statistical Update presents the latest data on a range of major clinical heart and circulatory disease conditions (including stroke, congenital heart disease, rhythm disorders, subclinical atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, heart failure, valvular disease, venous disease, and peripheral artery disease) and the associated outcomes (including quality of care, procedures, and economic costs).

METHODS

The American Heart Association, through its Statistics Committee, continuously monitors and evaluates sources of data on heart disease and stroke in the United States to provide the most current information available in the annual Statistical Update. The 2020 Statistical Update is the product of a full year's worth of effort by dedicated volunteer clinicians and scientists, committed government professionals, and American Heart Association staff members. This year's edition includes data on the monitoring and benefits of cardiovascular health in the population, metrics to assess and monitor healthy diets, an enhanced focus on social determinants of health, a focus on the global burden of cardiovascular disease, and further evidence-based approaches to changing behaviors, implementation strategies, and implications of the American Heart Association's 2020 Impact Goals.

RESULTS

Each of the 26 chapters in the Statistical Update focuses on a different topic related to heart disease and stroke statistics.

CONCLUSIONS

The Statistical Update represents a critical resource for the lay public, policy makers, media professionals, clinicians, healthcare administrators, researchers, health advocates, and others seeking the best available data on these factors and conditions.

Blood-Brain Barrier Leakage: A New Biomarker in Transient Ischemic Attacks

Background and Purpose- The diagnosis of transient ischemic attack is challenging. Evidence of acute ischemia on MRI diffusion-weighted imaging is highly variable and confirmed in only about one-third of patients. This study investigated the significance of blood-brain barrier dysfunction (BBBD) mapping in patients with transient neurological deficits, as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker required for risk stratification and stroke prevention. Methods- We used dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI to quantitatively map BBBD in a prospective cohort study of 57 patients diagnosed with transient ischemic attack/minor stroke and 50 healthy controls. Results- Brain volume with BBBD was significantly higher in patients compared with controls ( P=0.002). BBBD localization corresponded with the clinical presentation in 41 patients (72%) and was more extensive in patients with acute infarct on diffusion-weighted imaging ( P=0.05). Patients who developed new stroke during follow-up had a significantly greater BBBD at the initial presentation ( P=0.03) with a risk ratio of 5.35 for recurrent stroke. Conclusions- This is the first description of the extent and localization of BBBD in patients with transient ischemic attack/minor stroke. We propose BBBD mapping as a valuable tool for detection of subtle brain ischemia and a promising predictive biomarker required for risk stratification and stroke prevention.

A Review of Medical Conditions and Behavioral Problems in Dogs and Cats

Not all animals behave identically when faced with the same situation. These individual differences in the expression of their behavior could be due to many factors, including medical conditions. These medical problems can change behavior directly or indirectly. The aims of this review are to describe the state of the art of the relationship among some medical and behavioral problems, and to propose new lines of investigation. The revision is focused on the relation between behavioral problems and pain, endocrine diseases, neurological problems, vomeronasal organ alterations, and cardiac disorders. These problems represent a diagnostic challenge from a practical point of view. The most common sign of pain in animals is a change in behavior. Although the relation of pain to behavioral problems has been widely studied, it is not absolutely clear. As an example, the relation between sleep disorders and pain is poorly known in veterinary medicine. New studies in humans and laboratory animals show that a reciprocal relationship does, in fact, exist. More specifically, the literature suggests that the temporal effect of sleep deprivation on pain may be stronger than that of pain on sleep. Some behavioral problems could modify the sleep-awake cycle (e.g., cognitive dysfunction). The impact of these behavioral problems on pain perception is completely unknown in dogs and cats. Thyroid hormones play an important role, regarding behavioral control. Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism have been related to behavioral changes. Concerning hypothyroidism, this relationship remains controversial. Nonetheless, new neuro-imaging studies provide objective evidence that brain structure and function are altered in hypothyroid patients, both in laboratory animals and in humans. There are many neurological problems that could potentially change behavior. This paper reviews those neurological problems that could lead to behavioral changes without modifying neurological examination. The most common problems are tumors that affect central nervous system silent zones, mild traumatic brain injury, ischemic attacks, and epilepsy. Most of these diseases and their relationship to behavior are poorly studied in dogs and cats. To better understand the pathophysiology of all of these problems, and their relation to behavioral problems, may change the diagnostic protocol of behavioral problems.

Risk factors of perfusion and diffusion abnormalities on MRI in hemispheric TIA: a case-control study

Background

To assess the prevalence and potential predictors of MR diffusion and perfusion abnormalities in a Chinese population with hemispheric transient ischemic attacks (TIA).

Methods

Patients with temporary (<24 hours) focal cerebral dysfunction of probable vascular origin were considered to be potential candidates for this study in the emergency room. Those who were admitted to the stroke center of Shanghai Fourth People's Hospital affiliated to Tongji University between January 2015 and December 2018 were recruited to the present study. MRI, including both diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) and perfusion-weighted imaging (PWI), was performed within 7 days after the last symptom attack. Time to maximum of the residue function (Tmax) maps were auto-evaluated using the RAPID software to determine hypoperfusion. Multivariate analysis was used to assess the correlation of MR findings with clinical variables, medical history, cardio-metabolic characteristics, and the ABCD2 scores (age, blood pressure, clinical features, symptom duration and diabetes).

Results

Sixty-six out of 207 patients met the inclusion criteria. Baseline MRI showed DWI lesions in 20 patients (30.3%). The prevalence of MR perfusion Tmax >4 s >0 mL and ≥10 mL were 77.3% (51/66) and 50% (33/66), respectively. Male patients tended to develop DWI lesions after a TIA. Limb weakness was an independent factor associated with MR perfusion abnormalities (Tmax >4 s ≥10 mL) in this Chinese population (adjusted OR =7.41, 95% CI: 1.57-34.89, P=0.011).

Conclusions

Our results suggest that limb weakness is a strong predictor of perfusion abnormalities calculated by RAPID on Tmax maps of hemispheric TIA patients without DWI positive findings. Male patients are more likely to develop cerebral infarction.

External Validation of the Diagnosis of TIA (DOT) Score for Identification of TIA in a Chinese Population

Background: Recently, the [diagnosis of transient ischemic attack (TIA), DOT] score has been recognized to be a new tool for non-specialists to diagnose TIA more accurately with the sensitivity and specificity being 89 and 76%, respectively. However, the DOT score has not yet been validated externally in patients with TIA in China.

Methods: We retrospectively enrolled 500 consecutive patients with transient neurological symptoms, who were admitted to the Department of Neurology, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital and underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) between Jan 2016 and Dec 2018. Patients with transient neurological symptoms were divided into two subgroups: TIA mimic group (N = 140, 28%) and definite cerebrovascular events group including tissue-based TIA (DWI negative, N = 252, 50.4%) and minor stroke (DWI positive, N = 108, 21.6%). The demographic data, clinical characteristics, laboratory findings, and scores of Dawson and DOT were compared between the two groups.

Results: A total of 500 patients with transient neurological symptoms (mean age, 61.1 ± 12.8) were enrolled and 70% (N = 350) were male. Comparing with TIA mimic groups, patients with cerebrovascular events group were more likely to have higher diastolic blood pressure, uric acid and homocysteine, more motor weakness and speech abnormalities, and also scored higher using the Dawson and DOT. The area under the curve (AUC) was 0.728 for DOT, with a sensitivity of 70.3% and specificity of 62.9%, respectively.

Conclusion: In patients with transient neurological symptoms, our findings showed that the DOT score had relatively good calibration and discrimination to identify of TIA in a Chinese Population. As a novel tool of TIA identification, further validations are needed in multiple centers with larger samples in China.

Sex Differences in Presentation and Outcome After an Acute Transient or Minor Neurologic Event

Importance

Sex differences have been described in the presentation, care, and outcomes among people with acute ischemic strokes, but these differences are less understood for minor ischemic cerebrovascular events. The present study hypothesized that, compared with men, women are more likely to report nonfocal symptoms and to receive a stroke mimic diagnosis.

Objective

To evaluate sex differences in the symptoms, diagnoses, and outcomes of patients with acute transient or minor neurologic events.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This prospective cohort study of patients with minor ischemic cerebrovascular events or stroke mimics enrolled at multicenter academic emergency departments in Canada between December 2013 and March 2017 and followed up for 90 days is a substudy of SpecTRA (Spectrometry for Transient Ischemic Attack Rapid Assessment). In total, 1729 consecutive consenting patients with acute transient or minor neurologic symptoms were referred for neurologic evaluation; 66 patients were excluded for protocol violation (n = 46) or diagnosis of transient global amnesia (n = 20).

Exposures

The main exposure was female or male sex.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The main outcome was the clinical diagnosis (cerebral ischemia vs stroke mimic). Secondary outcomes were 90-day stroke recurrence and 90-day composite outcome of stroke, myocardial infarction, or death. The association between presenting symptoms (focal vs nonfocal) and clinical diagnosis was also assessed. Research hypotheses were formulated after data collection.

Results

Of 1648 patients included, 770 (46.7%) were women, the median (interquartile range) age was 70 (59-80) years, 1509 patients (91.6%) underwent brain magnetic resonance imaging, and 1582 patients (96.0%) completed the 90-day follow-up. Women (522 of 770 [67.8%]) were less likely than men (674 of 878 [76.8%]) to receive a diagnosis of cerebral ischemia (adjusted risk ratio [aRR], 0.88; 95% CI, 0.82-0.95), but the 90-day stroke recurrence outcome (aRR, 0.90; 95% CI, 0.48-1.66) and 90-day composite outcome (aRR, 0.86; 95% CI, 0.54-1.32) were similar for men and women. No significant sex differences were found for presenting symptoms. Compared with patients with no focal neurologic symptoms, those with focal and nonfocal symptoms were more likely to receive a diagnosis of cerebral ischemia (aRR, 1.28; 95% CI, 1.15-1.39), but the risk was highest among patients with focal symptoms only (aRR, 1.45; 95% CI, 1.34-1.53). Sex did not modify these associations.

Conclusions and Relevance

The results of the present study suggest that, despite similar presenting symptoms among men and women, women may be more likely to receive a diagnosis of stroke mimic, but they may not have a lower risk than men of subsequent vascular events, indicating potentially missed opportunities for prevention of vascular events among women.

Incidence and Predictors of Acute Ischemic Lesions on Brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Patients With a Clinical Diagnosis of Transient Ischemic Attack in China

Background: The associations between the clinical characteristics and diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) positivity in patients with a clinical diagnosis of transient ischemic attack (TIA) are still poorly understood. The purpose of our study was to determine the incidence of TIA related acute infarction by DWI, and to determine the underlying predictors of DWI positivity in TIA patients.

Methods: Between Jan 2017 and Dec 2018, we retrospectively enrolled 430 patients with a clinical diagnosis of TIA who underwent DWI. Patients were divided into those with acute ischemic lesions (DWI positive group) and those without (DWI negative group). The clinical characteristics, laboratory data, and imaging parameters were compared between the two groups.

Results: A total of 430 time-based TIA patients (mean age, 61.4 ± 13.0) were enrolled in this study. About 126 (29.3%) of TIA patients had a DWI positive lesion in our series. Comparing TIA patients with positive DWI to those with negative DWI, acute lesions were more likely to be more male, have higher hyperlipidemia and a smoking history, more speech abnormalities and increased motor weakness; and higher systolic and diastolic blood pressure, homocysteine, fasting blood glucose, and the scores of ABCD2, ABCD3, ABCD3-I, and Dawson. Several independent predictors of DWI positivity were identified with logistic regression analysis: motor weakness (odds ratio 4.861, P = 0.021), speech abnormalities (odds ratio 4.029, P = 0.024), and ABCD3-I (odds ratio 13.141, P = 0.001). ABCD3-I showed the greatest area under the ROC curve, with a sensitivity of 85.7% and specificity of 72.4%.

Conclusion: In patients with a clinical diagnosis of TIA, 29.3% demonstrated acute DWI lesions on brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). They were associated with motor weakness, speech abnormalities and higher ABCD3-I score at admission.