Antiplatelet therapy contributes to acute deterioration of intracerebral hemorrhage

Development and validation of the nomogram model derived non-contrast CT score to predict hematoma expansion in patients with spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage

AIMS

Develop and validate new non-contrast computed tomography (NCCT) score to predict hematoma expansion (HE) in spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (SICH) patients based on hematoma's shape irregularity and density heterogeneity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospective study was conducted among 136 patients for development and 90 patients for validation at two separate hospitals. SICH patients with NCCT scanned within 6 hours of symptoms and follow-up NCCT scanned within 24 hours were enrolled. Black hole sign and blend sign were integrated as combined heterogeneity; likewise, satellite sign and island sign were integrated as combined irregularity. Binary logistic regression analysis screened the covariates associated with HE. Nomogram was generated using the predicted value of binary logistic regression model to derive NCCT score to predict HE.

RESULTS

A total of 65 patients had HE in developmental cohort, where history of hypertension [odds ratio (OR) 2.56; 95% CI 1.169-5.607; P=0.019], initial NCCT time ≤ 3 hours (OR 2.50; 95% CI 1.169-5.327; P=0.018), combined heterogeneity (OR 2.50; 95% CI 1.160-5.365; P=0.019), and combined irregularity (OR 2.63; 95% CI 1.164-5.942; P=0.020) were independently associated with HE. A score was derived and a single point was allocated to each independently associated variable. HE was observed in 35 patients in validation cohort, which showed a proportional increase in the probability of HE with an increase in score accumulated.

CONCLUSION

New four-point NCCT score to predict HE was developed and validated, which may be regarded as fair predictive score where advance facilities are rarely available.

Association Between Prior Antiplatelet Therapy and Prognosis in Patients With Intracerebral Hemorrhage: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

PURPOSE

Approximately 20% to 30% of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) patients were reported to be on antiplatelet therapy (APT), and association between prior APT and prognosis was unclear. We aimed to clarify the impact of APT on the prognosis of ICH through an updated systematic review and meta-analysis, and to further compare the risk of single APT (SAPT) or dual APT (DAPT) prior to ICH as well as the risk associated with various antiplatelet drugs.

METHODS

EMBASE, MEDLINE via Ovid SP and Web of Science were searched from inception of each database to November 4, 2023. Included studies reported prognosis in both patients with prior APT and those without.

FINDINGS

A total of 433,103 patients from 43 studies were included in the meta-analysis. Both univariate and multivariate analyses demonstrated a significant association between prior-APT and an increased mortality risk (odd ratio [OR] 1.43, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.28-1.59; OR 1.20, 95%CI 1.10-1.30, respectively). The risk was higher in short term follow-up (Univariate OR 1.73, 95%CI 1.22-2.46; Multivariate OR 1.94, 95%CI 1.48-2.55). A notably increased risk of hematoma expansion was also observed in patients previously treated with APT (Univariate OR 1.47, 95%CI 1.12-1.94; Multivariate OR 1.88, 95%CI 1.30-2.71), which were mainly attributed to events within 24 hours. The impact of prior-APT on poor functional outcome was inconsistent between univariate and multivariate analyses. Both direct and indirect comparisons showed that SAPT significantly reduced the risk of mortality (OR 0.67, 95%CI 0.64-0.70; OR 0.84, 95%CI 0.71-0.99) and poor functional outcome (OR 0.84, 95%CI 0.72-0.98; OR 0.81, 95%CI 0.72-0.91) compared to DAPT.

IMPLICATIONS

Prior-APT increased the risk of mortality and hematoma expansion in patients with ICH. The increased risk of mortality and hematoma expansion was more obvious in the short term follow-up and within 24 hours, respectively. The effect of APT on poor functional outcome exhibited inconsistency between univariate and multivariate analyses, suggesting that further investigation is warranted to clarify this relationship. In comparison with DAPT, SAPT could decrease the risk of mortality and poor functional outcome. Further studies focusing on antiplatelet drug response, racial differences, and specific APT regimens may help verify the influence.

Hemostatic efficacy of four factor prothrombin complex concentrate in intracerebral hemorrhage patients receiving warfarin vs. factor Xa inhibitors

INTRODUCTION

4-F PCC is administered for reversal of factor Xa inhibitor-associated coagulopathy despite a lack of quality evidence demonstrating hemostatic efficacy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the hemostatic efficacy of 4-F PCC in intracerebral hemorrhage patients who received factor Xa inhibitors versus warfarin.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a multi-center, retrospective, observational cohort study at a large healthcare system. Patients taking warfarin received 4-F PCC 25-50 units/kg based on the presenting INR, while patients taking a factor Xa inhibitor received 35 units/kg. The primary outcome was the percentage of patients with good or excellent hemostatic efficacy as assessed by modified Sarode scale, with neurologic outcomes assessed as a secondary endpoint. Patients were included in the primary outcome population if they had a repeat CT scan within 24 h.

RESULTS

One hundred fifty-seven patients were included in the primary outcome population; [warfarin (n = 76), factor Xa inhibitors (n = 81)]. Hemostatic efficacy was 83 % in the warfarin group versus 75 % in the factor Xa inhibitor group (p = 0.24). The hemostatic efficacy risk difference between the groups was 7.6 % (95 % CI 5.1 %, 20.2 %). Good neurologic outcome (mRS 0-2) at discharge was 17 % in warfarin patients versus 12 % in the factor Xa inhibitor patients (p = 0.40).

CONCLUSIONS

There was no significant difference in hemostatic efficacy or clinical outcomes between patients taking warfarin or a factor Xa inhibitor following reversal with 4-F PCC. This study provides further support that 4-F PCC can be used for the reversal of factor Xa inhibitor-associated coagulopathy.

Hematoma expansion in intracerebral hemorrhage - the right target?

BACKGROUND

The avoidance of hematoma expansion is the most important therapeutic goal during acute care of patients with intracerebral hemorrhage. Hematoma expansion occurs in up to 20-40% of patients and leads to poorer patient outcome in one of the most severe sub-types of stroke.

MAIN TEXT

At current, randomized controlled trials have failed to provide evidence for interventions that effectively improve functional outcome in patients with intracerebral hemorrhage. Hence, hematoma expansion may serve as important surrogate target that appears causally linked with a poorer prognosis. Therefore, reduction of hematoma expansion rates will eventually translate to improved patient outcome overall. Recent years have shed light on the importance of early and aggressive treatment in order to reduce the risk for hematoma expansion in these patients. Time measures and imaging markers have been identified that may allow patient selection at very high risk for hematoma expansion.

CONCLUSIONS

Refinements in patient selection may increase chance for randomized trials to show true benefit. Therefore, this current review article will critically evaluate and discuss available evidence associated with hematoma expansion in patients with intracerebral hemorrhage.

Vitamin K antagonists but not non-vitamin K antagonists in addition on antiplatelet therapy should be associated with increase of hematoma volume and mortality in patients with intracerebral hemorrhage: A sub-analysis of PASTA registry study

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Prior concomitant use of vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) and antiplatelet (AP) therapy increase the hematoma volume and mortality compared with VKA monotherapy in patients with intracranial hemorrhage (ICH). However, the prior concomitant use of non-vitamin K oral antagonists (NOACs) and AP has not been clarified.

METHODS

We conducted a PASTA registry study, which was an observational, multicenter, registry of 1043 patients with stroke receiving oral anticoagulants (OACs) in Japan. In the present study, ICH from the PASTA registry was used to analyze the clinical characteristics including mortality among the four groups (NOAC, VKA, NOAC and AP, and VKA and AP) using univariate and multivariate analyses.

RESULTS

Among the 216 patients with ICH, 118 (54.6%), 27 (12.5%), 55 (25.5%), 16 (7.4%) were taking NOAC monotherapy, NOAC and AP, VKA, and VKA and AP, respectively. In-hospital mortality rates were the highest in VKA and AP (31.3%) than in NOACs (11.9%), NOACs and AP (7.4%), and VKA (7.3%). Multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated that the concomitant use of VKA and AP (odds ratio [OR], 20.57; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.75-241.75, p = 0.0162), initial National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score (OR, 1.21; 95%CI, 1.10-1.37, p < 0.0001), hematoma volume (OR, 1.41; 95%CI, 1.10-1.90, p = 0.066), and systolic blood pressure (OR, 1.31; 95%CI, 1.00-1.75, p = 0.0422) were independently associated with in-hospital mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Although VKA in addition to AP therapy could increase the in-hospital mortality, NOAC and AP did not increase the hematoma volume, stroke severity, or mortality compared to NOAC monotherapy.

Effect of antiplatelet therapy on the incidence, prognosis, and rebleeding of intracerebral hemorrhage

OBJECTIVE

Antiplatelet medications are increasingly being used for primary and secondary prevention of ischemic attacks owing to the increasing prevalence of ischemic stroke occurrences. Currently, many patients receive antiplatelet therapy (APT) to prevent thromboembolic events. However, long-term use of APT might also lead to an increased occurrence of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) and affect the prognosis of patients with ICH. Furthermore, some research suggest that restarting APT for patients who have previously experienced ICH may result in rebleeding events. The precise relationship between APT and ICH remains unknown.

METHODS

We searched PubMed for the most recent related literature and summarized the findings from various studies. The search terms included "antiplatelet," "intracerebral hemorrhage," "cerebral microbleeds," "hematoma expansion," "recurrent," and "reinitiate." Clinical studies involving human subjects were ultimately included and interpreted in this review, and animal studies were not discussed.

RESULTS

When individuals are administered APT, the risk of thrombotic events should be weighted against the risk of bleeding. In general, for some patients' concomitant with risk factors of thrombotic events, the advantages of antiplatelet medication may outweigh the inherent risk of rebleeding. However, the use of antiplatelet medications for other patients with a higher risk of bleeding should be carefully evaluated and closely monitored. In the future, a quantifiable system for assessing thrombotic risk and bleeding risk will be necessary. After evaluation, the appropriate time to restart APT for ICH patients should be determined to prevent underlying ischemic stroke events. According to the present study results and expert experience, most patients now restart APT at around 1 week following the onset of ICH. Nevertheless, the precise time to restart APT should be chosen on a case-by-case basis as per the patient's risk of embolic events and recurrent bleeding. More compelling evidence-based medicine evidence is needed in the future.

CONCLUSION

This review thoroughly discusses the relationship between APT and the development of ICH, the impact of APT on the course and prognosis of ICH patients, and the factors influencing the decision to restart APT after ICH. However, different studies' conclusions are inconsistent due to the differences in quality control. To support future clinical decisions, more large-scale randomized controlled trials are required.

Early Antiplatelet Resumption and the Risks of Major Bleeding After Intracerebral Hemorrhage

BACKGROUND

The appropriate timing of resuming antithrombotic therapy after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) remains unclear. The aim of this study was to compare the risks of major bleeding between early and late antiplatelet resumption in ICH survivors.

METHODS

Between 2008 and 2017, ICH patients were available in the National Health Insurance Research Database. Patients with a medication possession ratio of antiplatelet treatment ≥50% before ICH and after antiplatelet resumption were screened. We excluded patients with atrial fibrillation, heart failure, under anticoagulant or hemodialysis treatment, and developed cerebrovascular events or died before antiplatelet resumption. Finally, 1584 eligible patients were divided into EARLY (≤30 days) and LATE groups (31-365 days after the index ICH) based on the timing of antiplatelet resumption. Patients were followed until the occurrence of a clinical outcome, end of 1-year follow-up, death, or until December 31, 2018. The primary outcome was recurrent ICH. The secondary outcomes included all-cause mortality, major hemorrhagic events, major occlusive vascular events, and ischemic stroke. Cox proportional hazard model after matching was used for comparison between the 2 groups.

RESULTS

Both the EARLY and LATE groups had a similar risk of 1-year recurrent ICH (EARLY versus LATE: 3.12% versus 3.27%; adjusted hazard ratio [AHR], 0.967 [95% CI, 0.522-1.791]) after matching. Both groups also had a similar risk of each secondary outcome at 1-year follow-up. Subgroup analyses disclosed early antiplatelet resumption in the patients without prior cerebrovascular disease were associated with lower risks of all-cause mortality (AHR, 0.199 [95% CI, 0.054-0.739]) and major hemorrhagic events (AHR, 0.090 [95% CI, 0.010-0.797]), while early antiplatelet resumption in the patients with chronic kidney disease were associated with a lower risk of ischemic stroke (AHR, 0.065 [95% CI, 0.012-0.364]).

CONCLUSIONS

Early resumption of antiplatelet was as safe as delayed antiplatelet resumption in ICH patients. Besides, those without prior cerebrovascular disease or with chronic kidney disease may benefit more from early antiplatelet resumption.

A multicenter retrospective study evaluating the impact of desmopressin on hematoma expansion in patients with antiplatelet-associated intracranial hemorrhage

INTRODUCTION

Antiplatelet medications interfere with hemostasis which can contribute to increased risk of hematoma expansion and potentially worse outcomes in patients presenting with intracranial hemorrhages (ICH). Current Neurocritical Care Society guidelines recommend desmopressin (DDAVP) in patients with antiplatelet-associated ICH with evidence limited by small cohorts.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients were included in our multi-center, retrospective study if they had computed tomographic (CT) scan confirmed ICH and were taking antiplatelet medications. Patients were excluded if hospital length of stay was <24 h, administered DDAVP dose was <0.3 μg/kg, no follow-up head CT scan was performed within the first 24 h after baseline, major neurosurgical intervention was performed in between CT scans, or the injury was an acute on chronic ICH. The primary outcome was incidence of hematoma expansion (defined as >20 % increase from baseline). Secondary outcomes were incidence of thrombotic complications within 7 days, largest absolute decrease in serum sodium within the first 24 h, and patient disposition.

RESULTS

Among the 209 patients included in the study, 118 patients received DDAVP while 91 did not. The frequency of hematoma expansion was similar between patients who received DDAVP and those who did not (16.1 % vs 17.6 %; P = 0.78). No difference in secondary outcomes was observed between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings in conjunction with recently published literature may suggest minimal benefit or harm with DDAVP treatment. However, further study could elucidate any potential impact on long-term function outcomes.

Inhibitors of early mobilization in the acute phase of intracerebral hemorrhage: A retrospective observational study

OBJECTIVES

The association between early mobilization and functional prognosis in the acute phase of intracerebral hemorrhage has been reported, but only a few studies have investigated the inhibitors of early mobilization in the acute phase of intracerebral hemorrhage. This study aimed to investigate the inhibitors of early mobilization.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study enrolled 322 patients with intracerebral hemorrhage. In the early mobilization group, mobilization was started within 72 h from onset, and in the delayed mobilization group, mobilization was started at or after 72 h from onset. The association between the start of mobilization timing and baseline characteristics was investigated using univariate and multivariate analyses to clarify the inhibitors of early mobilization in the acute phase of intracerebral hemorrhage.

RESULTS

Significant differences between the early mobilization and delayed mobilization groups were observed in the lesion site, leukocyte count at admission, neutrophil count at admission, C-reactive protein level at admission, surgery, use of mechanical ventilation, consciousness level at admission, hematoma volume, and hematoma growth. In the multiple logistic regression analysis, five items were adopted, namely, low consciousness level at admission, lesion below the tent, surgery, C-reactive protein at admission, and hematoma growth.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, low consciousness level at admission, lesion below the tent, surgery, C-reactive protein level at admission, and hematoma growth affected delayed mobilization. Therefore, it is recommended to judge the start of mobilization timing by a systematic evidenced-based assessment for each case.

Application of a TEG-Platelet Mapping Algorithm to Guide Reversal of Antiplatelet Agents in Adults with Mild-to-Moderate Traumatic Brain Injury: An Observational Pilot Study

BACKGROUND

Traumatic intracranial hemorrhages expand in one third of cases, and antiplatelet medications may exacerbate hematoma expansion. However, the reversal of an antiplatelet effect with platelet transfusion has been associated with harm. We sought to determine whether a thromboelastography platelet mapping (TEG-PM)-guided algorithm could limit platelet transfusion in patients with hemorrhagic traumatic brain injury (TBI) prescribed antiplatelet medications without a resultant clinically significant increase in hemorrhage volume, late hemostatic treatments, or delayed operative intervention.

METHODS

A total of 175 consecutive patients with TBI were admitted to our university-affiliated, level I trauma center between March 2016 and December 2019: 54 preintervention patients (control) and 121 patients with TEG-PM (study). After exclusion for anticoagulant administration, availability of neuroimaging and emergent neurosurgery, 62 study patients and 37 control patients remained. Intervention consisted of administration of desmopressin (DDAVP) for nonsurgical patients with significant inhibition at the arachidonic acid or adenosine diphosphate receptor sites. For surgical patients with significant inhibition, dual therapy with DDAVP and platelet transfusion was employed. Study patients were compared with a group of historical controls, which were identified from a prospectively maintained registry and typically treated with empiric platelet transfusion.

RESULTS

Median age was 75 years (interquartile range 85-67) and 77 years (interquartile range 81-65) in the TEG-PM and control patient groups, respectively. Admission hemorrhage volumes were similar (10.7 cm³ [20.1] in patients with TEG-PM vs. 14.1 cm³ [19.7] in controls; p = 0.41). There were no significant differences in admission Glasgow Coma Scale, mechanism of trauma, or baseline comorbidities. A total of 57% of controls versus 10% of patients with TEG-PM (p < 0.001) were transfused platelets; 52% of intervention patients and 0% controls were treated with DDAVP. Expansion hemorrhage volumes were not significantly different (14.0 cm³ [20.2] patients with TEG-PM versus 13.6 cm³ [23.7] controls; p = 0.93). There was no significant difference in rates of clinical deterioration, delayed neurosurgical intervention, or late platelet transfusion between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients with hemorrhagic TBI prescribed preinjury antiplatelet therapy, our study suggests that the use of a TEG-PM algorithm may reduce platelet transfusions without a concurrent increase in clinically significant hematoma expansion. Further study is required to prove a causative relationship.

Intracerebral haemorrhage volume, haematoma expansion and 3-month outcomes in patients on antiplatelets. A systematic review and meta-analysis

Aims

We assessed the association of prior antiplatelet therapy (APT) at onset of intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH) with haematoma characteristics and outcome.

Methods

We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies comparing ICH outcomes of patients on APT (APT-ICH) with patients not taking APT (non-APT-ICH). Primary outcomes were haematoma volume (mean difference and 95% CI), haematoma expansion (HE), in-hospital 3-month mortality rates and good functional outcome (modified Rankin Scale score 0-2). We provide odds ratios (ORs) from random effects models and subgroup analyses for haematoma expansion and short-term mortality rates.

Results

We included 23 of 1551 studies on 30,949 patients with APT-ICH and 62,018 with non-APT-ICH. Patients on APT were older (Δmean 6.27 years, 95% CI 5.44-7.10), had larger haematoma volume (Δmean 5.74 mL, 95% CI 1.93-9.54), higher short-term mortality rates (OR 1.44, 95% CI 1.14-1.82), 3-month mortality rates (OR 1.58, 95% CI 1.14-2.19) and lower probability of good functional outcome (OR 0.61, 95% CI 0.49-0.77). While there was no difference in HE in the overall analysis (OR 1.32, 95% CI 0.85-2.06), HE occurred more frequently when assessed within 24 h (OR 2.58, 95% CI 1.18-5.67). We found insufficient data for comparison of single versus dual APT-ICH. Heterogeneity was substantial amongst studies.

Discussion

APT is associated with larger baseline haematoma volume, early (<24 h) haematoma expansion, mortality rates and morbidity in patients with ICH. Data on differences in single and dual APT-ICH are scarce and warrant further investigation. New treatment options for APT-ICH are urgently needed.

Anti-platelet medications and risk of intracranial hemorrhage in patients with metastatic brain tumors

Antiplatelet medication was not associated with an increased risk of ICH in patients with metastatic brain tumors.

Combined antiplatelet agents and anticoagulation was not associated with an increased risk of ICH compared with single-agent use.

Although intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) is frequent in the setting of brain metastases, there are limited data on the influence of antiplatelet agents on the development of brain tumor–associated ICH. To evaluate whether the administration of antiplatelet agents increases the risk of ICH, we performed a matched cohort analysis of patients with metastatic brain tumors with blinded radiology review. The study population included 392 patients with metastatic brain tumors (134 received antiplatelet agents and 258 acted as controls). Non–small cell lung cancer was the most common malignancy in the cohort (74.0%), followed by small cell lung cancer (9.9%), melanoma (4.6%), and renal cell cancer (4.3%). Among those who received an antiplatelet agent, 86.6% received aspirin alone and 23.1% received therapeutic anticoagulation during the study period. The cumulative incidence of any ICH at 1 year was 19.3% (95% CI, 14.1-24.4) in patients not receiving antiplatelet agents compared with 22.5% (95% CI, 15.2-29.8; P = .22, Gray test) in those receiving antiplatelet agents. The cumulative incidence of major ICH was 5.4% (95% CI, 2.6-8.3) among controls compared with 5.5% (95% CI, 1.5-9.5; P = .80) in those exposed to antiplatelet agents. The combination of anticoagulation plus antiplatelet agents did not increase the risk of major ICH. The use of antiplatelet agents was not associated with an increase in the incidence, size, or severity of ICH in the setting of brain metastases.

The role of monitoring platelet function perioperatively and platelet transfusion for operated spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage patients with long-term oral antiplatelet therapy: A case report

Introduction and importance

Spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (SICH) with long-term oral antiplatelet therapy (LOAPT) is known as a dilemma in balancing the risk of postoperative rebleeding and ischemic events because of confused coagulation function. We herein describe a report of perioperative management of spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage patient on long-term oral antiplatelet therapy.

Case presentation

A 42-year-old male patient on long-term oral antiplatelet therapy presented with coma, and he was diagnosed with spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage. Considering the patient's clinical condition, despite the thromboelastography suggested that the inhibition of platelet function was high preoperatively, an emergency craniectomy were underwent. After platelet transfusion during surgery and taking control of the clotting and platelet function postoperatively, the patient was stable without rebleeding and new ischemic events in perioperative period and recovered satisfactorily.

Clinical discussion

Rare studies have provided evidence for managing operated spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage patients on long-term oral antiplatelet therapy, and whether platelet transfusion is recommended was controversial. In this case, we presented monitoring and taking control of clotting and platelet function postoperatively would help in preventing rebleeding and ischemic events in such patients; moreover, platelet transfusion may quickly and safely reverse platelet dysfunction for emergency surgery. This case was the first to report platelet function and coagulation function management in spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage patients with long-term oral antiplatelet therapy.

Conclusion

Monitoring and maintaining coagulation and platelet function perioperatively are essential to balance the risk of postoperative rebleeding and ischemic events.

•

Spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage with antiplatelet therapy is known as a dilemma in postoperative management.

•

Antiplatelet therapy may not be the absolute contraindication for surgery in the severe spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage.

•

It is essential to monitor and take control of platelet function in postoperative patients with antiplatelet therapy.

Patients with venous thromboembolism after spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage: a review

Background

Patients with spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) have a higher risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) and in-hospital VTE is independently associated with poor outcomes for this patient population.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search about patients with VTE after spontaneous ICH was conducted using databases MEDLINE and PubMed. We searched for the following terms and other related terms (in US and UK spelling) to identify relevant studies: intracerebral hemorrhage, ICH, intraparenchymal hemorrhage, IPH, venous thromboembolism, VTE, deep vein thrombosis, DVT, pulmonary embolism, and PE. The search was restricted to human subjects and limited to articles published in English. Abstracts were screened and data from potentially relevant articles was analyzed.

Results

The prophylaxis and treatment of VTE are of vital importance for patients with spontaneous ICH. Prophylaxis measures can be mainly categorized into mechanical prophylaxis and chemoprophylaxis. Treatment strategies include anticoagulation, vena cava filter, systemic thrombolytic therapy, catheter-based thrombus removal, and surgical embolectomy. We briefly summarized the state of knowledge regarding the prophylaxis measures and treatment strategies of VTE after spontaneous ICH in this review, especially on chemoprophylaxis and anticoagulation therapy. Early mechanical prophylaxis, especially with intermittent pneumatic compression, is recommended by recent guidelines for patients with spontaneous ICH. While decision-making on chemoprophylaxis and anticoagulation therapy evokes debate among clinicians, because of the concern that anticoagulants may increase the risk of recurrent ICH and hematoma expansion. Uncertainty still exists regarding optimal anticoagulants, the timing of initiation, and dosage.

Conclusion

Based on current evidence, we deem that initiating chemoprophylaxis with UFH/LMWH within 24–48 h of ICH onset could be safe; anticoagulation therapy should depend on individual clinical condition; the role of NOACs in this patient population could be promising.

Effects of Prior Antiplatelet Therapy on Mortality, Functional Outcome, and Hematoma Expansion in Intracerebral Hemorrhage: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Cohort Studies

Background and Objective: Antiplatelet therapy (APT) is widely used and believed to be associated with increased poor prognosis by promoting bleeding in patients with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine whether prior APT is associated with mortality, functional outcome, and hematoma expansion in ICH patients. Methods: The PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases were searched for relevant published studies up to December 11, 2020. Univariate and multivariable adjusted odds ratios (ORs) were pooled using a random effects model. Cochran's chi-squared test (Cochran's Q), the I 2 statistic, and meta-regression analysis were used to evaluate the heterogeneity. Meta-regression models were developed to explore sources of heterogeneity. Funnel plots were used to detect publication bias. A trim-and-fill method was performed to identify possible asymmetry and assess the robustness of the conclusions. Results: Thirty-one studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria and exhibited a moderate risk of bias. Prior APT users with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) had a slightly increased mortality in both univariate analyses [odds ratio (OR) 1.39, 95% CI 1.24-1.56] and multivariable adjusted analyses (OR 1.41, 95% CI 1.21-1.64). The meta-regression indicated that for each additional day of assessment time, the adjusted OR for the mortality of APT patients decreased by 0.0089 (95% CI: -0.0164 to -0.0015; P = 0.0192) compared to that of non-APT patients. However, prior APT had no effects on poor function outcome (pooled univariate OR: 0.99, 95% CI 0.59-1.66; pooled multivariable adjusted OR: 0.93, 95% CI 0.87-1.07) or hematoma growth (pooled univariate OR: 1.23, 95% CI 0.40-3.74, pooled multivariable adjusted OR: 0.94, 95% CI 0.24-3.60). Conclusions: Prior APT was not associated with hematoma expansion or functional outcomes, but there was modestly increased mortality in prior APT patients. Higher mortality of prior APT patients was related to the strong influence of prior APT use on early mortality. Systematic Review Registration:PROSPERO Identifier [CRD42020215243].

Antiplatelet Therapy after Intracerebral Hemorrhage and Subsequent Clinical Events: A 12-Year South Korean Cohort Study

INTRODUCTION

Antiplatelet agents are usually discontinued to reduce hemorrhagic tendency during the acute phase of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). However, their use after ICH remains controversial.

METHODS

This study investigated the effect of antiplatelet agents in ICH survivors. We used the National Health Insurance Service-National Sample Cohort 2002-2013 database for retrospective cohort modeling, estimating the effects of antiplatelet therapy on clinical events. Subgroup analyses assessed antiplatelet medication administered before ICH.

RESULTS

The prescription rate of antiplatelets after ICH was also examined. Of 1,007 ICH-surviving patients, 303 subsequent clinical events were recorded, 41 recurrences of nonfatal ICH recurrence, 26 incidents of nonfatal ischemic stroke, 6 nonfatal myocardial infarctions, and 230 incidents of all-cause mortality. The use of antiplatelet therapy significantly decreased the risk of primary outcomes (adjusted hazard ratio [AHR] = 0.743, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.578-0.956) and all-cause mortality (AHR = 0.740, 95% CI = 0.552-0.991), especially in patients without a history of antiplatelet treatment. The use of antiplatelet medication after ICH did not significantly increase the recurrence of ICH. The prescription rate of antiplatelet therapy within 1 year was 16.6%. Among 220 patients with a history of using antiplatelet medication, the resumption rate was 0.5% at discharge, 5% after a month, 12.7% after 3 months, and 29.1% after a year.

CONCLUSION

Using antiplatelet treatment after ICH does not increase chances of recurrence, but lowers the occurrence of subsequent clinical events, especially mortality. However, the prescription and resumption rate of antiplatelet therapy after ICH remains low in South Korea.

Prognosis of Intracerebral Hemorrhage Related to Antithrombotic Use: An Observational Study From the Swedish Stroke Register (Riksstroke)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

To date, large studies comparing mortality and functional outcome of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) during oral anticoagulant (OAC), antiplatelet, and nonantithrombotic use are few and show discrepant results.

METHODS

We used data on 13 291 patients with ICH registered in Riksstroke between 2012 and 2016 to compare 90-day mortality and functional outcome following OAC-related ICH (n=2300), antiplatelet-related ICH (n=3637), and nonantithrombotic ICH (n=7354). Univariable and multivariable Cox regression analyses, with adjustment for relevant confounders, were used to compare 90-day mortality. Early (≤24 hours and 1-7 days) and late (8-90 days) mortality was also studied in subgroup analyses. Univariable and multivariable 90-day functional outcome, based on self-reported modified Rankin Scale, was determined using logistic regression.

RESULTS

Patients with antithrombotic treatment were more often prestroke dependent, older, and had a larger comorbidity burden compared with patients without antithrombotic treatment. At 90 days, antiplatelet and OAC were associated with an increased death rate in multivariable analysis (antiplatelet ICH: hazard ratio, 1.23 [95% CI, 1.14-1.33]; OAC ICH: hazard ratio, 1.40 [95% CI, 1.26-1.57]) compared with nonantithrombotic ICH (reference). OAC ICH and antiplatelet ICH were associated with higher risk of early mortality (≤24 hours: OAC ICH: hazard ratio, 1.93 [95% CI, 1.57-2.38]; antiplatelet ICH: hazard ratio, 1.32 [95% CI, 1.13-1.54]). In multivariable analysis, the odds ratios for the association of antiplatelet and OAC treatment on functional dependency (modified Rankin Scale score, 3-5) at 90 days were nonsignificant (antiplatelet: odds ratio, 1.07 [95% CI, 0.92-1.24]; OAC: odds ratio, 0.96 [95% CI, 0.76-1.22]).

CONCLUSIONS

In this large observational study, we found that 90-day mortality outcome was worse not only in OAC ICH but also in antiplatelet ICH, compared with patients with nonantithrombotic ICH. Antiplatelet ICH is common and is a serious condition with poor clinical outcome. Further studies are, therefore, warranted in determining the appropriate clinical management of these patients.

Prior antiplatelet therapy and haematoma expansion after primary intracerebral haemorrhage: an individual patient-level analysis of CLEAR III, MISTIE III and VISTA-ICH

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the relationship between prior antiplatelet therapy (APT) and outcomes after primary intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH), and assess if it varies by haematoma location.

METHODS

We pooled individual patient data from the Virtual International Stroke Trials Archive-ICH trials dataset, Clot Lysis: Evaluating Accelerated Resolution of Intraventricular Hemorrhage III trial and the Minimally Invasive Surgery Plus Alteplase for Intracerebral Hemorrhage Evacuation Phase III trial. The exposure was APT preceding ICH diagnosis. The primary outcome was haematoma expansion at 72 hours. Secondary outcomes were admission haematoma volume, all-cause mortality, death or major disability (modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score ≥4) and shift in mRS distribution. Mixed-effects models were used to assess the relationship between APT and outcomes. Secondary analyses were stratified by ICH location and study cohort.

RESULTS

Among 1420 patients with ICH, there were 782 (55.1%) lobar and 596 (42.0%) deep haemorrhages. APT was reported in 284 (20.0%) patients. In adjusted regression models, prior APT was not associated with haematoma expansion (OR, 0.97; 95% CI 0.60 to 1.57), major disability or death (OR, 1.05; 95% CI 0.61 to 1.63), all-cause mortality (OR, 0.89; 95% CI 0.47 to 1.85), admission haematoma volume (beta, -0.17; SE, 0.09; p=0.07) and shift in mRS (p=0.43). In secondary analyses, APT was associated with admission haematoma volume in lobar ICH (beta, 0.25; SE, 0.12; p=0.03), but there was no relationship with other ICH outcomes when stratified by haematoma location or study cohort.

CONCLUSIONS

In a large heterogeneous cohort of patients with ICH, prior APT was not associated with haematoma expansion or functional outcomes after ICH, regardless of haematoma location. APT was associated with admission haematoma volumes in lobar ICH.

Hematoma Expansion in Intracerebral Hemorrhage: An Update on Prediction and Treatment

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is the most lethal type of stroke, but there is no specific treatment. After years of effort, neurologists have found that hematoma expansion (HE) is a vital predictor of poor prognosis in ICH patients, with a not uncommon incidence ranging widely from 13 to 38%. Herein, the progress of studies on HE after ICH in recent years is updated, and the topics of definition, prevalence, risk factors, prediction score models, mechanisms, treatment, and prospects of HE are covered in this review. The risk factors and prediction score models, including clinical, imaging, and laboratory characteristics, are elaborated in detail, but limited by sensitivity, specificity, and inconvenience to clinical practice. The management of HE is also discussed from bench work to bed practice. However, the upmost problem at present is that there is no treatment for HE proven to definitely improve clinical outcomes. Further studies are needed to identify more accurate predictors and effective treatment to reduce HE.

Mortality in patients with intracerebral hemorrhage associated with antiplatelet agents, oral anticoagulants or no antithrombotic therapy

The association between preceding treatment with antiplatelet agents (APs), vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) or direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) and mortality after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) remains unclear. The aim of this multicenter, prospective cohort study was to assess the risk for death after ICH in consecutive patients who were on treatment with APs, VKAs, DOACs, or no antithrombotic agent. The primary outcome was in-hospital death by day 30. ICH volume at admission and volume expansion were centrally assessed. Out of 598 study patients, in-hospital death occurred in 21% of patients who were on treatment with APs, 25% with VKAs, 30% with DOACs, and 13% with no antithrombotics. Crude death rate was higher in patients on antithrombotics as compared to patients receiving no antithrombotic agent. At multivariate analysis, age (HR 1.07; 95% CI 1.04-1.10), previous stroke (HR 1.83; 95% CI 1.14-2.93), GCS ≤8 at admission (HR 6.06; 95% CI 3.16-9.74) and GCS 9-12 (HR 3.38; 95% CI 1.81-6.33) were independent predictors of death. Treatment with APs (HR 1.29; 95% CI 0.61-2.76), VKAs (HR 1.42; 95% CI 0.70-2.88) or DOACs (HR 1.28; 95% CI 0.61-2.73) were not predictors of death in the overall study population, in non-trauma associated ICH as well as when GCS was not included in the model. ICH volume and volume expansion were independent predictors of death. In conclusion, preceding treatment with antithrombotic is associated with the severity of ICH. Age, previous stroke and clinical severity at presentation were independent predictors of in-hospital death in patients with ICH.

Antiplatelet therapy does not increase mortality of surgical treatment for spontaneous intracerebral haemorrhage

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to find the effect of antiplatelet therapy on hematoma volume, rehaemorrhage rate and prognosis of intracerebral hemorrhage patients after surgery.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

101 surgically treated intracerebral hemorrhage subjects were included and analyzed retrospectively. Prior antiplatelet therapy was ascertained from the clinical history, and the patients included were divided into two groups: antiplatelet therapy and no antiplatelet therapy group. The in-hospital and follow-up outcomes were assessed with the Modified Rankin Scale and were compared between the 2 groups after 1:2 propensity score matching.

RESULTS

Before the diagnosis of intracerebral hemorrhage, 21.8 % patients were not on antiplatelet therapy. Antiplatelet therapy group had larger hematoma volume (99.32 mL versus 73.75 mL) with no significant difference (P = 0.308). After propensity score matching, 42 patients were obtained. 4(9.5 %) had rehaemorrhage after surgery, and antiplatelet therapy was not related to higher rehaemorrhage rate (P = 0.628). After follow-up, the overall mortality was 29.3 %, and 22 patients (53.7 %) ended up with severe morbidity. In the multivariate regression, plasma fibrinogen was an independent predictor of both in-hospital and follow-up overall mortality (P = 0.044; P = 0.016), and prior antiplatelet therapy was found to predict better follow-up functional outcome independently (P = 0.032).

CONCLUSION

Among surgically treated intracerebral hemorrhage patients, prior antiplatelet therapy did not increase hematoma volume, rehaemorrhage rate and mortality, and was related to lower follow-up severe morbidity independently.

Antiplatelet Therapy in Primary Spontaneous and Oral Anticoagulation-Associated Intracerebral Hemorrhage

Background and Purpose- This study determined the influence of concomitant antiplatelet therapy (APT) on hematoma characteristics and outcome in primary spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), vitamin K antagonist (VKA)- and non-VKA oral anticoagulant-associated ICH. Methods- Data of retrospective cohort studies and a prospective single-center study were pooled. Functional outcome, mortality, and radiological characteristics were defined as primary and secondary outcomes. Propensity score matching and logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the association between single or dual APT and hematoma volume. Results- A total of 3580 patients with ICH were screened, of whom 3545 with information on APT were analyzed. Three hundred forty-six (32.4%) patients in primary spontaneous ICH, 260 (11.4%) in VKA-ICH, and 30 (16.0%) in non-VKA oral anticoagulant-associated ICH were on APT, and these patients had more severe comorbidities. After propensity score matching VKA-ICH patients on APT presented with less favorable functional outcome (modified Rankin Scale score, 0-3; APT, 48/202 [23.8%] versus no APT, 187/587 [31.9%]; P=0.030) and higher mortality (APT, 103/202 [51.0%] versus no APT, 237/587 [40.4%]; P=0.009), whereas no significant differences were present in primary spontaneous ICH and non-VKA oral anticoagulant-associated ICH. In VKA-ICH, hematoma volume was significantly larger in patients with APT (21.9 [7.4-61.4] versus 15.7 [5.7-44.5] mL; P=0.005). Multivariable regression analysis revealed an association of APT and larger ICH volumes (odds ratio, 1.80 [1.20-2.70]; P=0.005), which was more pronounced in dual APT and supratherapeutically anticoagulated patients. Conclusions- APT does not affect ICH characteristics and outcome in primary spontaneous ICH patients; however, it is associated with larger ICH volume and worse functional outcome in VKA-ICH, presumably by additive antihemostatic effects. Combination of anticoagulation and APT should, therefore, be diligently evaluated and restricted to the shortest possible time frame.

Prior Antiplatelet Therapy, Excluding Phosphodiesterase Inhibitor Is Associated with Poor Outcome in Patients with Spontaneous Intracerebral Haemorrhage

There is conflicting results on whether prior antiplatelet therapy (APT) is associated with poor outcome in spontaneous intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH) patients. To determine whether prior APT is associated with spontaneous ICH, and whether there is a difference between the different types of APT, including cyclooxygenase inhibitor (COX-I), adenosine diphosphate receptor inhibitor (ADP-I) and phosphodiesterase inhibitor (PDE-I). A retrospective study of patients with ICH diagnosed between 2001 and 2013 in the National Health Insurance Research Database. Baseline unbalance between APT and non-APT groups was solved by multivariable adjustment (primary analysis) and propensity score matching (sensitivity analysis). Patients with prior APT had a higher rate of in-hospital death (odds ratio [OR], 1.16; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.09-1.23) compared to non-APT group. Compared to non-APT group, there was a greater rate of in-hospital death with spontaneous ICH with ADP-I (OR, 1.49; 95% CI, 1.24-1.79) and COX-I (OR, 1.17; 95% CI, 1.09-1.25). PDE-I exhibited no difference in in-hospital death with spontaneous ICH (OR, 1.03; 95% CI, 0.91-1.16) compared to non-APT group. Remarkably, the in-hospital mortality rate was significantly higher in the ADP-I group than in the PDE-I group (hazard ratio, 1.45; 95% CI, 1.17-1.80). In this study, ADP-I and COX-1, but not PDE-I, are the most likely contributors to the association of APT with poor outcome with spontaneous ICH patients. These findings suggest that the complexity of the different mechanism of actions of prior APT can alter the outcome in spontaneous ICH.

Intracerebral Hemorrhage

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This article describes the advances in the management of spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage in adults.

RECENT FINDINGS

Therapeutic intervention in intracerebral hemorrhage has continued to focus on arresting hemorrhage expansion, with large randomized controlled trials addressing the effectiveness of rapidly lowering blood pressure, hemostatic therapy with platelet transfusion, and other clotting complexes and clot volume reduction both of intraventricular and parenchymal hematomas using minimally invasive techniques. Smaller studies targeting perihematomal edema and inflammation may also show promise.

SUMMARY

The management of spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage, long relegated to the management and prevention of complications, is undergoing a recent evolution in large part owing to stereotactically guided clot evacuation techniques that have been shown to be safe and that may potentially improve outcomes.

Combining Investigation of Imaging Markers (Island Sign and Blend Sign) and Clinical Factors in Predicting Hematoma Expansion of Intracerebral Hemorrhage in the Basal Ganglia

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is the most difficult-to-treat form of stroke and accounts for about 10%-30% of all strokes worldwide. Hematoma expansion (HE), which occurs in one third of patients with ICH, is strongly predictive of worse prognosis and potentially preventable if high-risk patients are identified in the early phase of ICH. We summarized data from recent studies on HE prediction and classified those potential indicators into 2 categories: 1) clinical and laboratory and 2) radiographic. Therefore, we aimed to identify the accuracy of L, that is, the value of combining predictors in predicting HE of ICH in basal ganglia.

METHODS

We retrospectively investigated the clinical database of Qinghai Provincial People's Hospital for patients with ICH aged >18 years between January 2015 and January 2018. As inclusion criteria, we defined 1) ICH diagnosed on noncontrast computed tomography (CT); 2) noncontrast CT performed on enrollment within 6 hours after onset of symptoms; 3) follow-up CT scan performed within 24 hours after the baseline CT scan; and 4) all of the primary hematoma was located in the basal ganglia. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis were used to analyze the potential HE predictors, and then receiver operating characteristic curves were used to evaluate the L (the value of combining predictors) of imaging markers and clinical factors in predicting HE.

RESULTS

Of the 99 patients with HE, island sign was present in 48.48% (48/99) of patients and blend sign was present in 34.34% (34/99) of patients. Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified time to baseline CT scan (odds ratio [OR] 1.574; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.205-2.054; P = 0.001), baseline hematoma volume (P = 0.001), presence of island sign (OR 11.247; 95% CI 4.701-26.909; P = 0.000), presence of blend sign (OR 3.104; 95% CI 1.425-6.765; P = 0.004), anticoagulants use or international normalized ratio >1.5 (OR 2.755; 95% CI 1.072-7.082; P = 0.035), and intraventricular hemorrhage (OR 2.351; 95% CI 1.066-5.187; P = 0.034) as independent predictors of HE. The sensitivity and specificity of L (value of combining predictors) were 88.89% and 80.84%, respectively; the area under the curve was 0.918.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings indicated that the ability of L to predict HE was much more excellent than these 6 predictors alone. L showed a high association with HE, with an accuracy of 91.8%, and was a reliable value of combining predictors in terms of predicting HE. L may serve as a promising, noninvasive tool for clinical therapeutic strategy.

Absolute risk and predictors of the growth of acute spontaneous intracerebral haemorrhage: a systematic review and meta-analysis of individual patient data

Background

Intracerebral haemorrhage growth is associated with poor clinical outcome and is a therapeutic target for improving outcome. We aimed to determine the absolute risk and predictors of intracerebral haemorrhage growth, develop and validate prediction models, and evaluate the added value of CT angiography.

Methods

In a systematic review of OVID MEDLINE—with additional hand-searching of relevant studies' bibliographies— from Jan 1, 1970, to Dec 31, 2015, we identified observational cohorts and randomised trials with repeat scanning protocols that included at least ten patients with acute intracerebral haemorrhage. We sought individual patient-level data from corresponding authors for patients aged 18 years or older with data available from brain imaging initially done 0·5–24 h and repeated fewer than 6 days after symptom onset, who had baseline intracerebral haemorrhage volume of less than 150 mL, and did not undergo acute treatment that might reduce intracerebral haemorrhage volume. We estimated the absolute risk and predictors of the primary outcome of intracerebral haemorrhage growth (defined as >6 mL increase in intracerebral haemorrhage volume on repeat imaging) using multivariable logistic regression models in development and validation cohorts in four subgroups of patients, using a hierarchical approach: patients not taking anticoagulant therapy at intracerebral haemorrhage onset (who constituted the largest subgroup), patients taking anticoagulant therapy at intracerebral haemorrhage onset, patients from cohorts that included at least some patients taking anticoagulant therapy at intracerebral haemorrhage onset, and patients for whom both information about anticoagulant therapy at intracerebral haemorrhage onset and spot sign on acute CT angiography were known.

Findings

Of 4191 studies identified, 77 were eligible for inclusion. Overall, 36 (47%) cohorts provided data on 5435 eligible patients. 5076 of these patients were not taking anticoagulant therapy at symptom onset (median age 67 years, IQR 56–76), of whom 1009 (20%) had intracerebral haemorrhage growth. Multivariable models of patients with data on antiplatelet therapy use, data on anticoagulant therapy use, and assessment of CT angiography spot sign at symptom onset showed that time from symptom onset to baseline imaging (odds ratio 0·50, 95% CI 0·36–0·70; p<0·0001), intracerebral haemorrhage volume on baseline imaging (7·18, 4·46–11·60; p<0·0001), antiplatelet use (1·68, 1·06–2·66; p=0·026), and anticoagulant use (3·48, 1·96–6·16; p<0·0001) were independent predictors of intracerebral haemorrhage growth (C-index 0·78, 95% CI 0·75–0·82). Addition of CT angiography spot sign (odds ratio 4·46, 95% CI 2·95–6·75; p<0·0001) to the model increased the C-index by 0·05 (95% CI 0·03–0·07).

Interpretation

In this large patient-level meta-analysis, models using four or five predictors had acceptable to good discrimination. These models could inform the location and frequency of observations on patients in clinical practice, explain treatment effects in prior randomised trials, and guide the design of future trials.

Funding

UK Medical Research Council and British Heart Foundation.

Preliminary Study of Tirofiban Infusion in Coil Embolization of Ruptured Intracranial Aneurysms

BACKGROUND

There have been some reports on the use of intra-arterial tirofiban in ruptured intracranial aneurysms, but few studies have reported on the use of 24 h of intravenous tirofiban infusion in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage.

OBJECTIVE

To present our experience with intravenous tirofiban infusion, in the form of a monotherapy as well as in addition to intra-arterial tirofiban, as a prophylactic, and as a rescue management for thrombus in patients who have undergone embolization with coils for ruptured intracranial aneurysms.

METHODS

Between December 2008 and January 2015, we retrospectively reviewed 249 ruptured intracranial aneurysms that were treated with coiling at our institutions. A total of 28 patients harboring 28 ruptured and 3 unruptured intracranial aneurysms underwent intravenous tirofiban infusion during or after coil embolization of an aneurysm. Intra-arterial infusion of tirofiban via a microcatheter was also performed in 26 patients.

RESULTS

Thromboembolic formation during the procedure was detected in 25 cases. Intra-arterial tirofiban dissolved the thromboembolus under angiographic control after 10 or more minutes in 19 (76%) of 25 patients. Two intracranial hemorrhagic complications (increase in the extent of hematoma) occurred during the follow-up period. Two cases of other complications occurred: hematuria and perioral bleeding.

CONCLUSION

Intravenous tirofiban, as a monotherapy or in addition to intra-arterial tirofiban for thrombotic complications, seems to be useful as a treatment for acute aneurysm. However, alternatives to tirofiban should be considered if an associated hematoma is discovered before a patient receives a tirofiban infusion.

Restarting antiplatelet therapy after spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage: Functional outcomes

OBJECTIVE

To compare the functional outcomes and health-related quality of life metrics of restarting vs not restarting antiplatelet therapy (APT) in patients presenting with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) in the ERICH (Ethnic/Racial Variations of Intracerebral Hemorrhage) study.

METHODS

Adult patients aged 18 years and older who were on APT before ICH and were alive at hospital discharge were included. Patients were dichotomized based on whether or not APT was restarted after hospital discharge. The primary outcome was a modified Rankin Scale score of 0-2 at 90 days. Secondary outcomes were excellent outcome (modified Rankin Scale score 0-1), mortality, Barthel Index, and health status (EuroQol-5 dimensions [EQ-5D] and EQ-5D visual analog scale scores) at 90 days.

RESULTS

The APT and no APT cohorts comprised 127 and 732 patients, respectively. Restarting APT was associated with lower rates of good functional outcome (36.5% vs 40.8%; p = 0.021) and lower Barthel Index scores at 90 days (p = 0.041). The 2 cohorts were then matched in a 1:1 ratio, and the matched cohorts each comprised 107 patients. No difference in primary outcome was observed between restarting vs not restarting APT (35.5% vs 43.9%; p = 0.105). There were also no differences between the secondary outcomes of the 2 cohorts.

CONCLUSION

Restarting APT in patients with ICH of mild to moderate severity after acute hospitalization is not associated with worse functional outcomes or health-related quality of life at 90 days. In patients with significant cardiovascular risk factors who experience an ICH, restarting APT remains the decision of the treating practitioner.

Update on the Treatment of Spontaneous Intraparenchymal Hemorrhage: Medical and Interventional Management

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Spontaneous intraparenchymal hemorrhage (IPH) is a prominent challenge faced globally by neurosurgeons, neurologists, and intensivists. Over the past few decades, basic and clinical research efforts have been undertaken with the goal of delineating biologically and evidence-based practices aimed at decreasing mortality and optimizing the likelihood of meaningful functional outcome for patients afflicted with this devastating condition. Here, the authors review the medical and surgical approaches available for the treatment of spontaneous intraparenchymal hemorrhage, identifying areas of recent progress and ongoing research to delineate the scope and scale of IPH as it is currently understood and treated.

RECENT FINDINGS

The approaches to IPH have broadly focused on arresting expansion of hemorrhage using a number of approaches. Recent trials have addressed the effectiveness of rapid blood pressure lowering in hypertensive patients with IPH, with rapid lowering demonstrated to be safe and at least partially effective in preventing hematoma expansion. Hemostatic therapy with platelet transfusion in patients on anti-platelet medications has been recently demonstrated to have no benefit and may be harmful. Hemostasis with administration of clotting complexes has not been shown to be effective in reducing hematoma expansion or improving outcomes although correcting these abnormalities as soon as possible remains good practice until further data are available. Stereotactically guided drainage of IPH with intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) has been shown to be safe and to improve outcomes. Research on new stereotactic surgical methods has begun to show promise. Patients with IPH should have rapid and accurate diagnosis with neuroimaging with computed tomography (CT) and computed tomography angiography (CTA). Early interventions should include control of hypertension to a systolic BP in the range of 140 mmHg for small hemorrhages without intracranial hypertension with beta blockers or calcium channel blockers, correction of any coagulopathy if present, and assessment of the need for surgical intervention. IPH and FUNC (Functional Outcome in Patients with Primary Intracerebral Hemorrhage) scores should be assessed. Patients should be dispositioned to a dedicated neurologic ICU if available. Patients should be monitored for seizures and intracranial pressure issues. Select patients, particularly those with intraventricular extension, may benefit from evacuation of hematoma with a ventriculostomy or stereotactically guided catheter. Once stabilized, patients should be reassessed with CT imaging and receive ongoing management of blood pressure, cerebral edema, ICP issues, and seizures as they arise. The goal of care for most patients is to regain capacity to receive multidisciplinary rehabilitation to optimize functional outcome.

Early Outcome after Intracranial Hemorrhage Related to Non-Vitamin K Oral Anticoagulants

BACKGROUND

Intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) is a serious, life-threatening, but fortunately rare complication of non-vitamin K oral anticoagulant (NOAC) therapy. There are limited data on NOAC-related ICH prognosis.

METHODS

All consecutive patients admitted to a single center due to acute NOAC-related ICH from September 2012 until the beginning of 2017 were included. Risk factors, type of NOAC, and location of ICH were evaluated. Risk for ischemic and bleeding events and clinical status upon admission and at discharge were evaluated using standard scales.

RESULTS

Thirty-four patients aged 77.8 ± 8.3 years with NOAC-related ICH were included. The main predisposing risk factors were age and arterial hypertension. The median CHA2DS2-VASc score was 3.4 and the median HAS-BLED score was 1.8. Eighteen patients were treated with rivaroxaban, 11 with dabigatran, and 5 with apixaban. Ten patients (29%) had a favorable outcome with a modified Rankin Scale score ≤2 and 13 patients (38%) died. The location of the ICH was mainly intraparenchymal and subdural.

CONCLUSIONS

Our retrospective single-center study shows that the mortality rate with NOAC-related ICH is <40%, which makes it comparable to that with vitamin K antagonist-related ICH.

Dual Antiplatelet Therapy Is Associated With Coagulopathy Detectable by Thrombelastography in Acute Stroke

Background:

Thrombelastography (TEG) provides a global, dynamic measure of coagulation. We examined the effect of antiplatelet (AP) medications on coagulation in patients with acute stroke as measured by TEG.

Methods:

We reviewed prospectively collected data on patients presenting with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) between 2009 and 2014. Patient demographics and baseline TEG values were compared among 4 different drug use groups: aspirin only, clopidogrel only, both aspirin and clopidogrel, and no AP. Multivariable regression models were conducted to compare the differences in TEG components.

Results:

A total of 202 patients were included, 139 with AIS and 63 with ICH. Forty-eight (24%) patients were taking aspirin alone, 12 (6%) were taking clopidogrel, 16 (8%) dual AP, and 126 (62%) no AP. Dual AP use was associated with prolonged mean R (time to initiate clotting) of 5.5 minutes as compared to no AP use (4.6 minutes, P = .04). Additionally, mean maximal amplitude (MA; final clot strength) and angle (rate of clot formation) were decreased in the dual AP group (MA = 59.3 mm, angle = 57.8°) as compared to the no AP group (MA = 64.5 mm, angle = 64.5°; P = .04 and P = .01, respectively). Patients on single AP therapy (either aspirin or clopidogrel) did not differ from those on no AP therapy in any TEG parameters measured.

Conclusion:

Dual AP therapy is associated with a detectable coagulopathy which may have implications in the management of patients with AIS and hemorrhagic stroke. The effects of single AP therapy may not be demonstrated by TEG.

Cancer is an independent predictor of poor outcomes in patients following intracerebral hemorrhage

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Patients with cancer have been reported to have poorer outcomes following intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) than those without cancer, but the findings were not consistent between studies. The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that cancer is associated with poor outcomes following ICH.

METHODS

In all, 3137 consecutive patients admitted to the stroke unit of Osaka University Hospital were reviewed. Patients diagnosed with ICH were extracted and divided into two groups according to the presence of cancer. ICH characteristics were compared between the groups. The outcomes were measured using the 30-day and 90-day modified Rankin Scale (mRS).

RESULTS

Amongst the 399 ICH patients (37.1% women; median age 66 years), the frequency of cancer was 15.3%. Of these, 70.5% of patients had distant metastatic cancers. Compared to controls, cancer patients were comparable in the Glasgow Coma Scale, hematoma volume and the frequency of infratentorial location and intraventricular hemorrhage extension, but had poorer outcomes following ICH. Ordinal logistic regression analysis revealed that cancer was independently associated with poor outcomes following ICH (odds ratio 5.14; 95% confidence interval 2.63-10.06). Adjustment was made for the covariates age, sex, time from onset to admission, prior use of antithrombotic agents, pre-stroke mRS, Glasgow Coma Scale, hematoma volume, infratentorial location and intraventricular hemorrhage extension. When the analysis was performed using data from individuals with localized cancer, the effect remained significant after assessment with 90-day mRS but not after that with 30-day mRS.

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggest that cancer, especially distant metastatic cancer, is an independent predictor of poorer outcomes following ICH.

Variability in the Use of Platelet Transfusion in Patients with Intracerebral Hemorrhage: Observations from the Ethnic/Racial Variations of Intracerebral Hemorrhage Study

BACKGROUND

We examined platelet transfusion (PTx) in the Ethnic/Racial Variations of Intracerebral Hemorrhage (ERICH) study, hypothesizing that rates of PTx would vary among hospitals and depend on whether patients were on an antiplatelet therapy or underwent intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) surgical treatment.

METHODS

The ERICH study is a prospective observational study evaluating risk factors for ICH among whites, blacks, and Hispanics. We identified factors associated with PTx, examined practice patterns of PTx across the United States, and explored the association of PTx with mortality and poor outcome (modified Rankin Scale score 4-6).

RESULTS

Nineteen centers enrolled 2572 ICH cases; 11.7% received PTx. Factors significantly associated with PTx were antiplatelet use before onset (odds ratio [OR], 5.02; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.81-6.61, P < .0001), thrombocytopenia (OR, 13.53; 95% CI, 8.43-21.72, P < .0001), and ventriculostomy placement (OR, 1.85; 95% CI, 1.36-2.52, P < .0001). Blacks were less likely (OR, .57; 95% CI, .41-0.80) to receive PTx. Among patients who received PTx, 42.4% were not on an antiplatelet therapy before onset. Twenty-three percent of patients on antiplatelet therapy received PTx, but percentages varied from 0% to 71% across centers. There was no difference in mortality or poor outcome at 3 months between patients receiving PTx and those who did not.

CONCLUSIONS

The frequency of PTx for ICH varies across academic centers. Thrombocytopenia, antiplatelet use, vascular risk factors, and ventriculostomy placement were associated with PTx. PTx was not associated with improved outcomes. We anticipate reduced PTx use over time given recent clinical trial data suggesting its use could be harmful; however, the issue of whether surgical management warrants PTx remains.

Novel oral anticoagulants and trauma: The results of a prospective American Association for the Surgery of Trauma Multi-Institutional Trial

BACKGROUND

The number of anticoagulated trauma patients is increasing. Trauma patients on warfarin have been found to have poor outcomes, particularly after intracranial hemorrhage (ICH). However, the effect of novel oral anticoagulants (NOAs) on trauma outcomes is unknown. We hypothesized that patients on NOAs would have higher rates of ICH, ICH progression, and death compared with patients on traditional anticoagulant and antiplatelet agents.

METHODS

This was a prospective observational trial across 16 trauma centers. Inclusion criteria was any trauma patient admitted on aspirin, clopidogrel, warfarin, dabigatran, rivaroxaban, or apixaban. Demographic data, admission vital signs, mechanism of injury, injury severity scores, laboratory values, and interventions were collected. Outcomes included ICH, progression of ICH, and death.

RESULTS

A total of 1,847 patients were enrolled between July 2013 and June 2015. Mean age was 74.9 years (SD ± 13.8), 46% were female, 77% were non-Hispanic white. At least one comorbidity was reported in 94% of patients. Blunt trauma accounted for 99% of patients, and the median Injury Severity Score was 9 (interquartile range, 4-14). 50% of patients were on antiplatelet agents, 33% on warfarin, 10% on NOAs, and 7% on combination therapy or subcutaneous agents.Patients taking NOAs were not at higher risk for ICH on univariate (24% vs. 31%) or multivariate analysis (incidence rate ratio, 0.78; confidence interval 0.61-1.01, p = 0.05). Compared with all other agents, patients on aspirin (90%, 81 mg; 10%, 325 mg) had the highest rate (35%) and risk (incidence rate ratio, 1.27; confidence interval, 1.13-1.43; p < 0.001) of ICH. Progression of ICH occurred in 17% of patients and was not different between medication groups. Study mortality was 7% and was not significantly different between groups on univariate or multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSION

Patients on NOAs were not at higher risk for ICH, ICH progression, or death.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic/epidemiologic study, level III.

Predictors of hematoma expansion predictors after intracerebral hemorrhage

Despite years of effort, intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) remains the most devastating form of stroke with more than 40% 30-day mortality worldwide. Hematoma expansion (HE), which occurs in one third of ICH patients, is strongly predictive of worse prognosis and potentially preventable if high-risk patients were identified in the early phase of ICH. In this review, we summarize data from recent studies on HE prediction and classify those potential indicators into four categories: clinical (severity of consciousness disturbance; blood pressure; blood glucose at and after admission); laboratory (hematologic parameters of coagulation, inflammation and microvascular integrity status), radiographic (interval time from ICH onset; baseline volume, shape and density of hematoma; intraventricular hemorrhage; especially the spot sign and modified spot sign) and integrated predictors (9-point or 24-point clinical prediction algorithm and PREDICT A/B). We discuss those predictors’ underlying pathophysiology in HE and present opportunities to develop future therapeutic strategies.

Association Between Previous Use of Antiplatelet Therapy and Intracerebral Hemorrhage Outcomes

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Although the use of antiplatelet therapy (APT) is associated with the risk of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), there are limited data on prestroke APT and outcomes, particularly among patients on combination APT (CAPT). We hypothesized that the previous use of antiplatelet agents is associated with increased mortality in ICH.

METHODS

We analyzed data of 82 576 patients with ICH who were not on oral anticoagulant therapy from 1574 Get with the Guidelines-Stroke hospitals between October 2012 and March 2016. Patients were categorized as not on APT, on single-APT (SAPT), and CAPT before hospital presentation with ICH. We described baseline characteristics, comorbidities, hospital characteristics and outcomes, overall and stratified by APT use.

RESULTS

Before the diagnosis of ICH, 65.8% patients were not on APT, 29.5% patients were on SAPT, and 4.8% patients were on CAPT. There was an overall modest increased in-hospital mortality in the APT group versus no APT group (24% versus 23%; adjusted odds ratio, 1.05; 95% confidence interval, 1.01-1.10). Although patients on SAPT and CAPT were older and had higher risk profiles in terms of comorbidities, there was no significant difference in the in-hospital mortality among patients on SAPT versus those not on any APT (23% versus 23%; adjusted odds ratio, 1.01; 95% confidence interval, 0.97-1.05). However, in-hospital mortality was higher among those on CAPT versus those not on APT (30% versus 23%; adjusted odds ratio, 1.50; 95% confidence interval, 1.39-1.63).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study suggests that among patients with ICH, previous use of CAPT, but not SAPT, was associated with higher risk for in-hospital mortality.

Antithrombotic pretreatment increases very-early mortality in primary intracerebral hemorrhage

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the effect of previous antiplatelet (AP) and vitamin K antagonist (VKA) treatments on outcome in patients with primary intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH).

METHODS

In this prospective observational study, we analyzed 529 patients according to antithrombotic pretreatment: none, AP, or VKA. Very-early (24-hour) death, 3-month mortality, and functional independence were analyzed.

RESULTS

Of 236 (44.6%) pretreated patients, 147 (27.8%) patients were taking AP and 89 (16.8%) VKA. Very-early death was observed in 13.4% and was increased in pretreated patients: 19.0% for AP and 27.0% for VKA treatment, compared to 6.5% in non-pretreated patients, p < 0.0001. Three-month mortality was 40.8% overall (49.7% for AP pretreated, 58.4% for VKA pretreated, and 31.1% for non-pretreated patients, p < 0.0001). The adjusted odds of very-early and 3-month mortality were 2.55 (p = 0.004) and 1.56 (p = 0.046) for AP-pretreated patients and 4.24 (p < 0.0001) and 2.34 (p = 0.01) for VKA-pretreated patients, respectively, compared with non-pretreated patients. The effect of antithrombotic pretreatment on mortality from 24 hours to 3 months was nonsignificant. At 3-month follow-up, 28.5% of patients remained functionally independent: 22.4% of AP-pretreated, 15.7% of VKA-pretreated, and 35.5% of non-pretreated patients (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

A high percentage of patients with ICH preventively treated with VKA or AP died during the first 24 hours after admission. Both treatments were predictors of very-early mortality. The final effect of antithrombotics on 3-month mortality remains significant through its strong effect on very-early mortality. Safety concerns about starting chronic antithrombotic treatment should be considered not only when VKA treatment is planned but also for AP treatment.

Management of neurologic complications of coagulopathies

Coagulopathy is common in intensive care units (ICUs). Many physiologic derangements lead to dysfunctional hemostasis; these may be either congenital or acquired. The most devastating outcome of coagulopathy in the critically ill is major bleeding, defined by transfusion requirement, hemodynamic instability, or intracranial hemorrhage. ICU coagulopathy often poses complex management dilemmas, as bleeding risk must be tempered with thrombotic potential. Coagulopathy associated with intracranial hemorrhage bears directly on prognosis and outcome. There is a paucity of high-quality evidence for the management of coagulopathies in neurocritical care; however, data derived from studies of patients with intraparenchymal hemorrhage may inform treatment decisions. Coagulopathy is often broadly defined as any derangement of hemostasis resulting in either excessive bleeding or clotting, although most typically it is defined as impaired clot formation. Abnormalities in coagulation testing without overt clinical bleeding may also be considered evidence of coagulopathy. This chapter will focus on acquired conditions, such as organ failure, pharmacologic therapies, and platelet dysfunction that are associated with defective clot formation and result in, or exacerbate, intracranial hemorrhage, specifically spontaneous intraparenchymal hemorrhage and traumatic brain injury.

The critical care management of spontaneous intracranial hemorrhage: a contemporary review

Spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), defined as nontraumatic bleeding into the brain parenchyma, is the second most common subtype of stroke, with 5.3 million cases and over 3 million deaths reported worldwide in 2010. Case fatality is extremely high (reaching approximately 60 % at 1 year post event). Only 20 % of patients who survive are independent within 6 months. Factors such as chronic hypertension, cerebral amyloid angiopathy, and anticoagulation are commonly associated with ICH. Chronic arterial hypertension represents the major risk factor for bleeding. The incidence of hypertension-related ICH is decreasing in some regions due to improvements in the treatment of chronic hypertension. Anticoagulant-related ICH (vitamin K antagonists and the newer oral anticoagulant drugs) represents an increasing cause of ICH, currently accounting for more than 15 % of all cases. Although questions regarding the optimal medical and surgical management of ICH still remain, recent clinical trials examining hemostatic therapy, blood pressure control, and hematoma evacuation have advanced our understanding of ICH management. Timely and aggressive management in the acute phase may mitigate secondary brain injury. The initial management should include: initial medical stabilization; rapid, accurate neuroimaging to establish the diagnosis and elucidate an etiology; standardized neurologic assessment to determine baseline severity; prevention of hematoma expansion (blood pressure management and reversal of coagulopathy); consideration of early surgical intervention; and prevention of secondary brain injury. This review aims to provide a clinical approach for the practicing clinician.

The HEP Score: A Nomogram-Derived Hematoma Expansion Prediction Scale

BACKGROUND

Identification of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) patients at risk of substantial hematoma expansion (SHE) could facilitate the selection of candidates likely to benefit from therapies aiming to minimize ICH growth. We aimed to develop a grading tool that can be quickly used during the hyperacute phase to predict the risk of SHE.

METHODS

We reviewed data from 237 spontaneous ICH patients who had baseline head CT scan within 12 h of symptom onset and follow-up CT during the following 72 h. We performed logistic regression analyses to determine the predictors of SHE (defined as an absolute increase in ICH volume >6 ml or an increase >33% on follow-up CT). We identified 6 predictors; each was assigned a point in the graphic interface of a nomogram which was used to construct a scoring system-The Hematoma Expansion Prediction (HEP) Score, varying from 0 to 18 points. We evaluated the ability of the model to predict the probability of SHE using c-statistics.

RESULTS

SHE occurred in 74 patients (31.2%). The final model to predict SHE included 6 variables: time from onset to baseline CT (<3 vs. 3-12 h), history of dementia, current smoking, antiplatelet use, Glasgow Comma Scale score, and the presence of subarachnoid hemorrhage on baseline scan. The model had satisfactory discrimination ability with a bootstrap corrected c-index of 0.76 (95% CI 0.69-0.83) and good calibration. Patients with a total HEP score >3 were at greatest risk for SHE.

CONCLUSIONS

We developed and internally validated a novel nomogram and an easy to use score which accurately predict the probability of SHE based on six easily obtainable parameters. This could be useful for treatment decision and stratification. External prospective validation of the HEP score is warranted before its application to other populations.