Long-Term Outcomes in Patients With Spontaneous Cerebellar Hemorrhage: An International Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) in the cerebellum has a poor short-term prognosis, whereas data on the long-term case fatality and recurrent vascular events are sparse. Herewith, we aimed to assess the long-term case fatality and recurrence rate of vascular events after a first cerebellar ICH.

METHODS

In this international cohort study, we included patients from 10 hospitals (the United States and Europe from 1997 to 2017) aged ≥18 years with a first spontaneous cerebellar ICH who were discharged alive. Data on long-term case fatality and recurrence of vascular events (recurrent ICH [supratentoria or infratentorial], ischemic stroke, myocardial infarction, or major vascular surgery) were collected for survival analysis and absolute event rate calculation.

RESULTS

We included 405 patients with cerebellar ICH (mean age [SD], 72 [13] years, 49% female). The median survival time was 67 months (interquartile range, 23-100 months), with a cumulative survival rate of 34% at 10-year follow-up (median follow-up time per center ranged: 15-80 months). In the 347 patients with data on vascular events 92 events occurred in 78 patients, after initial cerebellar ICH: 31 (8.9%) patients had a recurrent ICH (absolute event rate, 1.8 per 100 patient-years [95% CI, 1.2-2.6]), 39 (11%) had an ischemic stroke (absolute event rate, 2.3 [95% CI, 1.6-3.2]), 13 (3.7%) had a myocardial infarction (absolute event rate, 0.8 [95% CI, 0.4-1.3]), and 5 (1.4%) underwent major vascular surgery (absolute event rate, 0.3 [95% CI, 0.1-0.7]). The median time to a first vascular event during follow-up was 27 months (interquartile range, 8.7-50 months), with a cumulative hazard of 47% at 10 years.

CONCLUSIONS

The long-term prognosis of patients who survive a first spontaneous cerebellar ICH is poor and comparable to that of patients who survive a first supratentorial ICH. Further identification of patients at high risk of vascular events following the initial cerebellar ICH is needed. Including patients with cerebellar ICH in randomized controlled trials on secondary prevention of patients with ICH is warranted.

The predictive validity of a Brain Care Score for dementia and stroke: data from the UK Biobank cohort

Introduction

The 21-point Brain Care Score (BCS) was developed through a modified Delphi process in partnership with practitioners and patients to promote behavior changes and lifestyle choices in order to sustainably reduce the risk of dementia and stroke. We aimed to assess the associations of the BCS with risk of incident dementia and stroke.

Methods

The BCS was derived from the United Kingdom Biobank (UKB) baseline evaluation for participants aged 40-69 years, recruited between 2006-2010. Associations of BCS and risk of subsequent incident dementia and stroke were estimated using Cox proportional hazard regressions, adjusted for sex assigned at birth and stratified by age groups at baseline.

Results

The BCS (median: 12; IQR:11-14) was derived for 398,990 UKB participants (mean age: 57; females: 54%). There were 5,354 incident cases of dementia and 7,259 incident cases of stroke recorded during a median follow-up of 12.5 years. A five-point higher BCS at baseline was associated with a 59% (95%CI: 40-72%) lower risk of dementia among participants aged <50. Among those aged 50-59, the figure was 32% (95%CI: 20-42%) and 8% (95%CI: 2-14%) for those aged >59 years. A five-point higher BCS was associated with a 48% (95%CI: 39-56%) lower risk of stroke among participants aged <50, 52% (95%CI, 47-56%) among those aged 50-59, and 33% (95%CI, 29-37%) among those aged >59.

Discussion

The BCS has clinically relevant and statistically significant associations with risk of dementia and stroke in approximately 0.4 million UK people. Future research includes investigating the feasibility, adaptability and implementation of the BCS for patients and providers worldwide.

Characterization and Classification of Spatial White Matter Tract Alteration Patterns in Glioma Patients Using Magnetic Resonance Tractography: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

INTRODUCTION

Magnetic resonance (MR) tractography can be used to study the spatial relations between gliomas and white matter (WM) tracts. Various spatial patterns of WM tract alterations have been described in the literature. We reviewed classification systems of these patterns, and investigated whether low-grade gliomas (LGGs) and high-grade gliomas (HGGs) demonstrate distinct spatial WM tract alteration patterns.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to summarize the evidence regarding MR tractography studies that investigated spatial WM tract alteration patterns in glioma patients.

RESULTS

Eleven studies were included. Overall, four spatial WM tract alteration patterns were reported in the current literature: displacement, infiltration, disruption/destruction and edematous. There was a considerable heterogeneity in the operational definitions of these terms. In a subset of studies, sufficient homogeneity in the classification systems was found to analyze pooled results for the displacement and infiltration patterns. Our meta-analyses suggested that LGGs displaced WM tracts significantly more often than HGGs (n = 259 patients, RR: 1.79, 95% CI [1.14, 2.79], I² = 51%). No significant differences between LGGs and HGGs were found for WM tract infiltration (n = 196 patients, RR: 1.19, 95% CI [0.95, 1.50], I² = 4%).

CONCLUSIONS

The low number of included studies and their considerable methodological heterogeneity emphasize the need for a more uniform classification system to study spatial WM tract alteration patterns using MR tractography. This review provides a first step towards such a classification system, by showing that the current literature is inconclusive and that the ability of fractional anisotropy (FA) to define spatial WM tract alteration patterns should be critically evaluated. We found variations in spatial WM tract alteration patterns between LGGs and HGGs, when specifically examining displacement and infiltration in a subset of the included studies.

Oligodendrogliomas tend to infiltrate the frontal aslant tract, whereas astrocytomas tend to displace it

INTRODUCTION

MR-tractography is increasingly used in neurosurgical practice to evaluate the anatomical relationships between glioma and nearby subcortical tracts. In some patients, the subcortical tracts seem displaced by the glioma, while in other patients, the subcortical tracts seem infiltrated without displacement. At this point, it is unknown whether these different patterns are related to tumor type. The aim of this exploratory study was to investigate whether tumor type is related to the spatial tractography pattern of the frontal aslant tract (FAT) in low-grade gliomas (LGGs).

METHODS

In 64 IDH-mutated LGG patients, the FAT was generated using a pipeline for automatic tractography. In 41 patients, the glioma adjoined the FAT, and four blinded reviewers independently assessed the following two dichotomous categories (yes/no): (i) glioma displaces the tract, and (ii) glioma infiltrates the tract.

RESULTS

Fisher's exact tests demonstrated strong and significant positive associations between displacement and astrocytomas (p = .002, φ = .497) and infiltration and oligodendrogliomas (p = .004, φ = .484). The interobserver agreement was good for both categories: (i) κ = 0.76 and (ii) κ = 0.71.

CONCLUSION

High sensitivity but low specificity for displacement in astrocytomas demonstrates that in the case of an astrocytoma, the tract is most likely displaced, but that displacement in itself is not necessarily predictive for astrocytomas, as oligodendrogliomas may both infiltrate and displace a tract. Overall, these results demonstrate that oligodendrogliomas tend to infiltrate the nearby subcortical tract, whereas astrocytomas only tend to displace it.

Computed Tomography Angiography Spot Sign, Hematoma Expansion, and Functional Outcome in Spontaneous Cerebellar Intracerebral Hemorrhage

[Figure: see text].

Secondary Hematoma Evacuation and Outcome After Initial Conservative Approach for Patients with Cerebellar Hematoma Larger than 3 cm

Background

In patients with spontaneous cerebellar intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) guidelines advocate evacuation when the hematoma diameter is > 3 cm. We studied outcome in patients with cerebellar ICH > 3 cm who did not undergo immediate hematoma evacuation.

Methods

We included consecutive patients with cerebellar ICH > 3 cm at two academic hospitals between 2008 and 2017. Patients who died < 24 h (h) were excluded because of probable confounding by indication. We determined patient characteristics, hematoma volumes, EVD placement, secondary hematoma evacuation, in-hospital and 3-month case-fatality, and functional outcome.

Results

Of 130 patients with cerebellar ICH, 98 (77%) had a hematoma > 3 cm of whom 22 (23%) died < 24 h and 28 (29%) underwent hematoma evacuation < 24 h. Thus, 48 patients were initially treated conservatively (mean age 70 ± 13, 24 (50%) female). Of these 48 patients, 7 (15%) underwent secondary hematoma evacuation > 24 h, of whom 1 (14%) had received an EVD < 24 h. Five others also received an EVD < 24 h without subsequent hematoma evacuation. Of the 41 patients without secondary hematoma evacuation, 11 (28%) died and 20 (51%) had a favorable outcome (mRS of 0–3) at 3 months. The 7 patients who underwent secondary hematoma evacuation had a decrease in GCS score of at least two points prior to surgery; two (29%) had deceased at 3 months; and 5 (71%) had a good functional outcome (mRS 0–3).

Conclusions

While cerebellar ICH > 3 cm is often considered an indication for immediate hematoma evacuation, there may be a subgroup of patients in whom surgery can be safely deferred. Further data are needed to assess the optimal timing and indications of surgical treatment in these patients.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12028-021-01203-6.

Impact of Cerebral Small Vessel Disease on Functional Recovery After Intracerebral Hemorrhage

Background and Purpose- In this study, we aim to investigate the association of computed tomography-based markers of cerebral small vessel disease with functional outcome and recovery after intracerebral hemorrhage. Methods- Computed tomographic scans of patients in the ERICH study (Ethnic and Racial Variations of Intracerebral Hemorrhage) were evaluated for the extent of leukoaraiosis and cerebral atrophy using visual rating scales. Poor functional outcome was defined as a modified Rankin Scale (mRS) of ≥3. Multivariable logistic and linear regression models were used to explore the associations of cerebral small vessel disease imaging markers with poor functional outcome at discharge and, as a measure of recovery, change in mRS from discharge to 90 days poststroke. Results- After excluding in-hospital deaths, data from 2344 patients, 583 (24.9%) with good functional outcome (mRS of 0-2) at discharge and 1761 (75.1%) with poor functional outcome (mRS of 3-5) at discharge, were included. Increasing extent of leukoaraiosis (P for trend, 0.01) and only severe (grade 4) global atrophy (odds ratio, 2.02; 95% CI, 1.22-3.39, P=0.007) were independently associated with poor functional outcome at discharge. Mean (SD) mRS change from discharge to 90-day follow-up was 0.57 (1.18). Increasing extent of leukoaraiosis (P for trend, 0.002) and severe global atrophy (β [SE], -0.23 [0.115]; P=0.045) were independently associated with less improvement in mRS from discharge to 90 days poststroke. Conclusions- In intracerebral hemorrhage survivors, the extent of cerebral small vessel disease at the time of intracerebral hemorrhage is associated with poor functional outcome at hospital discharge and impaired functional recovery from discharge to 90 days poststroke.

A coil in the hair-a case report of percutaneous coil migration

Coil migration following cerebral aneurysm treatment has been described and may result in stroke, recurrent aneurysm, or local mass effect. Cerebral coil embolization is also applied in arteriovenous malformations and arteriovenous fistulas, but these pathologies are relatively rare and coil migration is not as well described. Furthermore, these cases are more commonly treated with combinations of multiple modalities to achieve cure. Embolization, surgery, and radiation each have risks and benefits and combinations may have synergistic risks and benefits not seen in monotherapy. We report a case of extravascular and extra-corporeal coil migration after embolization and craniectomy to treat a patient with hemorrhage from an arteriovenous fistula.

Dexamethasone Administration and Mortality in Patients with Brain Abscess: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Dexamethasone has been used to treat cerebral edema associated with brain abscess. Whereas some argue that dexamethasone might aid antibiotic treatment, others believe that because of its immunosuppressive characteristics, it might have a negative impact on outcomes. How corticosteroid use affects overall mortality of brain abscess patients remains unclear.

METHODS

A systematic search of the literature was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases were utilized to identify all studies related to patients diagnosed with a brain abscess treated with dexamethasone. The main outcome of interest was mortality. Pooled effect estimates were calculated using fixed-effects (FE) and random-effects (RE) models.

RESULTS

After removal of duplicates, 1681 articles were extracted from the literature of which 11 were included. These included 7 cohort studies and 4 case series. Indications to administer dexamethasone were either hospital brain abscess protocol or clinical presentation of cerebral edema. The 7 cohort studies involving 571 patients with brain abscesses comprised of 330 patients treated with standard of care (SOC) plus dexamethasone and 241 patients treated with SOC alone, after aspiration or surgical management of the abscess in either group. Pooling results from all seven cohort studies demonstrated a nonsignificant mortality benefit comparing SOC and dexamethasone patients to SOC patients (FE: risk ratio [RR], 0.94; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.64-1.37; RE: RR, 0.95; 95% CI, 049-1.82; I² = 53.9%; P for heterogeneity = 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with a brain abscess treated with antibiotics, the use of dexamethasone was not associated with increased mortality.

Hypernatremia at Hospital Discharge and Out of Hospital Mortality Following Primary Intracerebral Hemorrhage

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

In patients with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), it is not clear if hypernatremia is merely a marker of disease severity or if elevated sodium levels are harmful. We hypothesized that hypernatremia at hospital discharge in primary ICH patients would be associated with increased mortality following discharge.

METHODS

We performed a two-center observational study of critically ill ICH patients in Boston. We studied 5100 patients, age ≥18 years, who were diagnosed with ICH (ICD-9 code 431), received medical or surgical critical care between 1997 and 2011 and survived hospitalization. The exposure of interest was serum sodium within 24 h of hospital discharge, categorized as Na ≤ 145 mmol/L and Na > 145 mmol/L. The primary outcome was 30-day post-discharge mortality. Odds ratios were estimated by logistic regression models adjusted for age, race, gender, Deyo-Charlson Index, patient type (medical versus surgical) and sepsis.

RESULTS

In ICH patients who received critical care and survived hospitalization, the serum sodium at discharge was a predictor of post-discharge mortality. Patients with a discharge Na > 145 mmol/L have an OR for mortality in the 30 days following hospital discharge of 1.82 (95 %CI 1.38-2.38; P < 0.001) and an adjusted OR of 1.87 (95 %CI 1.40-2.48; P < 0.001) both relative to patients with a discharge Na ≤ 145 mmol/L. The adjusted model showed good discrimination AUC 0.77 (95 %CI 0.74-0.79) and calibration (Hosmer-Lemeshow χ (2) P = 0.68).

CONCLUSIONS

In critically ill ICH patients who survive hospitalization, hypernatremia at the time of discharge is a robust predictor of post-discharge mortality.

Intensive Blood Pressure Reduction and Spot Sign in Intracerebral Hemorrhage: A Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance

The computed tomographic angiography (CTA) spot sign is associated with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) expansion and may mark those patients most likely to benefit from intensive blood pressure (BP) reduction.

Objective

To investigate whether the spot sign is associated with ICH expansion across a wide range of centers and whether intensive BP reduction decreases hematoma expansion and improves outcome in patients with ICH and a spot sign.

Design, Setting, and Participants

SCORE-IT (Spot Sign Score in Restricting ICH Growth) is a preplanned prospective observational study nested in the Antihypertensive Treatment of Acute Cerebral Hemorrhage II (ATACH-II) randomized clinical trial. Participants included consecutive patients with primary ICH who underwent a CTA within 8 hours from onset at 59 sites from May 15, 2011, through December 19, 2015. Data were analyzed for the present study from July 1 to August 31, 2016.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Patients in ATACH-II were randomized to intensive (systolic BP target, <140 mm Hg) vs standard (systolic BP target, <180 mm Hg) BP reduction within 4.5 hours from onset. Expansion of ICH was defined as hematoma growth of greater than 33%, and an unfavorable outcome was defined as a 90-day modified Rankin Scale score of 4 or greater (range, 0-6). The association among BP reduction, ICH expansion, and outcome was investigated with multivariable logistic regression.

Results

A total of 133 patients (83 men [62.4%] and 50 women [37.6%]; mean [SD] age, 61.9 [13.1] years) were included. Of these, 53 (39.8%) had a spot sign, and 24 of 123 without missing data (19.5%) experienced ICH expansion. The spot sign was associated with expansion with sensitivity of 0.54 (95% CI, 0.34-0.74) and specificity of 0.63 (95% CI, 0.53-0.72). After adjustment for potential confounders, intensive BP treatment was not associated with a significant reduction of ICH expansion (relative risk, 0.83; 95% CI, 0.27-2.51; P = .74) or improved outcome (relative risk of 90-day modified Rankin Scale score ≥4, 1.24; 95% CI, 0.53-2.91; P = .62) in spot sign-positive patients.

Conclusions and Relevance

The predictive performance of the spot sign for ICH expansion was lower than in prior reports from single-center studies. No evidence suggested that patients with ICH and a spot sign specifically benefit from intensive BP reduction.

Trial Registration

clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT01176565.

Blood pressure reduction and noncontrast CT markers of intracerebral hemorrhage expansion

OBJECTIVE

To validate various noncontrast CT (NCCT) predictors of hematoma expansion in a large international cohort of ICH patients and investigate whether intensive blood pressure (BP) treatment reduces ICH growth and improves outcome in patients with these markers.

METHODS

We analyzed patients enrolled in the Antihypertensive Treatment of Acute Cerebral Hemorrhage II (ATACH-II) randomized controlled trial. Participants were assigned to intensive (systolic BP <140 mm Hg) vs standard (systolic BP <180 mm Hg) treatment within 4.5 hours from onset. The following NCCT markers were identified: intrahematoma hypodensities, black hole sign, swirl sign, blend sign, heterogeneous hematoma density, and irregular shape. ICH expansion was defined as hematoma growth >33% and unfavorable outcome was defined as modified Rankin Scale score >3 at 90 days. Logistic regression was used to identify predictors of ICH expansion and explore the association between NCCT signs and clinical benefit from intensive BP treatment.

RESULTS

A total of 989 patients were included (mean age 62 years, 61.9% male), of whom 186/869 experienced hematoma expansion (21.4%) and 361/952 (37.9%) had unfavorable outcome. NCCT markers independently predicted ICH expansion (all p < 0.01) with overall accuracy ranging from 61% to 78% and good interrater reliability (k > 0.6 for all markers). There was no evidence of an interaction between NCCT markers and benefit from intensive BP reduction (all p for interaction >0.10).

CONCLUSIONS

NCCT signs reliably identify ICH patients at high risk of hematoma growth. However, we found no evidence that patients with these markers specifically benefit from intensive BP reduction.

CLINICALTRIALSGOV IDENTIFIER

NCT01176565.

Association Between Hypodensities Detected by Computed Tomography and Hematoma Expansion in Patients With Intracerebral Hemorrhage

IMPORTANCE

Hematoma expansion is a potentially modifiable predictor of poor outcome following an acute intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). The ability to identify patients with ICH who are likeliest to experience hematoma expansion and therefore likeliest to benefit from expansion-targeted treatments remains an unmet need. Hypodensities within an ICH detected by noncontrast computed tomography (NCCT) have been suggested as a predictor of hematoma expansion.

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether hypodense regions, irrespective of their specific patterns, are associated with hematoma expansion in patients with ICH.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

We analyzed a large cohort of 784 patients with ICH (the development cohort; 55.6% female), examined NCCT findings for any hypodensity, and replicated our findings on a different cohort of patients (the replication cohort; 52.7% female). Baseline and follow-up NCCT data from consecutive patients with ICH presenting to a tertiary care hospital between 1994 and 2015 were retrospectively analyzed. Data analyses were performed between December 2015 and January 2016.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Hypodensities were analyzed by 2 independent blinded raters. The association between hypodensities and hematoma expansion (>6 cm3 or 33% of baseline volume) was determined by multivariable logistic regression after controlling for other variables associated with hematoma expansion in univariate analyses with P ≤ .10.

RESULTS

A total of 1029 patients were included in the analysis. In the development and replication cohorts, 222 of 784 patients (28.3%) and 99 of 245 patients (40.4%; 321 of 1029 patients [31.2%]), respectively, had NCCT scans that demonstrated hypodensities at baseline (κ = 0.87 for interrater reliability). In univariate analyses, hypodensities were associated with hematoma expansion (86 of 163 patients with hematoma expansion had hypodensities [52.8%], whereas 136 of 621 patients without hematoma expansion had hypodensities [21.9%]; P < .001). The association between hypodensities and hematoma expansion remained significant (odds ratio, 3.42 [95% CI, 2.21-5.31]; P < .001) in a multivariable model; other independent predictors of hematoma expansion were a CT angiography spot sign, a shorter time to CT, warfarin use, and older age. The independent predictive value of hypodensities was again demonstrated in the replication cohort (odds ratio, 4.37 [95% CI, 2.05-9.62]; P < .001).

CONCLUSION AND RELEVANCE

Hypodensities within an acute ICH detected on an NCCT scan may predict hematoma expansion, independent of other clinical and imaging predictors. This novel marker may help clarify the mechanism of hematoma expansion and serve as a useful addition to clinical algorithms for determining the risk of and treatment stratification for hematoma expansion.

Association of Key Magnetic Resonance Imaging Markers of Cerebral Small Vessel Disease With Hematoma Volume and Expansion in Patients With Lobar and Deep Intracerebral Hemorrhage

Importance

Hematoma expansion is an important determinant of outcome in spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) due to small vessel disease (SVD), but the association between the severity of the underlying SVD and the extent of bleeding at the acute phase is unknown to date.

Objective

To investigate the association between key magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) markers of SVD (as per the Standards for Reporting Vascular Changes on Neuroimaging [STRIVE] guidelines) and hematoma volume and expansion in patients with lobar or deep ICH.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Analysis of data collected from 418 consecutive patients admitted with primary lobar or deep ICH to a single tertiary care medical center between January 1, 2000, and October 1, 2012. Data were analyzed on March 4, 2016. Participants were consecutive patients with computed tomographic images allowing ICH volume calculation and MRI allowing imaging markers of SVD assessment.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The ICH volumes at baseline and within 48 hours after symptom onset were measured in 418 patients with spontaneous ICH without anticoagulant therapy, and hematoma expansion was calculated. Cerebral microbleeds, cortical superficial siderosis, and white matter hyperintensity volume were assessed on MRI. The associations between these SVD markers and ICH volume, as well as hematoma expansion, were investigated using multivariable models.

Results

This study analyzed 254 patients with lobar ICH (mean [SD] age, 75 [11] years and 140 [55.1%] female) and 164 patients with deep ICH (mean [SD] age 67 [14] years and 71 [43.3%] female). The presence of cortical superficial siderosis was an independent variable associated with larger ICH volume in the lobar ICH group (odds ratio per quintile increase in final ICH volume, 1.49; 95% CI, 1.14-1.94; P = .004). In multivariable models, the absence of cerebral microbleeds was associated with larger ICH volume for both the lobar and deep ICH groups (odds ratios per quintile increase in final ICH volume, 1.41; 95% CI, 1.11-1.81; P = .006 and 1.43; 95% CI, 1.04-1.99; P = .03; respectively) and with hematoma expansion in the lobar ICH group (odds ratio, 1.70; 95% CI, 1.07-2.92; P = .04). The white matter hyperintensity volumes were not associated with either hematoma volume or expansion.

Conclusions and Relevance

In patients admitted with primary lobar or deep ICH to a single tertiary care medical center, the presence of cortical superficial siderosis was an independent variable associated with larger lobar ICH volume, and the absence of cerebral microbleeds was associated with larger lobar and deep ICHs. The absence of cerebral microbleeds was independently associated with more frequent hematoma expansion in patients with lobar ICH. We provide an analytical framework for future studies aimed at limiting hematoma expansion.

Genetic variants in CETP increase risk of intracerebral hemorrhage

Objective

In observational epidemiologic studies, higher plasma high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C) has been associated with increased risk of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). DNA sequence variants that decrease cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) gene activity increase plasma HDL‐C; as such, medicines that inhibit CETP and raise HDL‐C are in clinical development. Here, we test the hypothesis that CETP DNA sequence variants associated with higher HDL‐C also increase risk for ICH.

Methods

We performed 2 candidate‐gene analyses of CETP. First, we tested individual CETP variants in a discovery cohort of 1,149 ICH cases and 1,238 controls from 3 studies, followed by replication in 1,625 cases and 1,845 controls from 5 studies. Second, we constructed a genetic risk score comprised of 7 independent variants at the CETP locus and tested this score for association with HDL‐C as well as ICH risk.

Results

Twelve variants within CETP demonstrated nominal association with ICH, with the strongest association at the rs173539 locus (odds ratio [OR] = 1.25, standard error [SE] = 0.06, p = 6.0 × 10⁻⁴) with no heterogeneity across studies (I² = 0%). This association was replicated in patients of European ancestry (p = 0.03). A genetic score of CETP variants found to increase HDL‐C by ∼2.85mg/dl in the Global Lipids Genetics Consortium was strongly associated with ICH risk (OR = 1.86, SE = 0.13, p = 1.39 × 10⁻⁶).

Interpretation

Genetic variants in CETP associated with increased HDL‐C raise the risk of ICH. Given ongoing therapeutic development in CETP inhibition and other HDL‐raising strategies, further exploration of potential adverse cerebrovascular outcomes may be warranted. Ann Neurol 2016;80:730–740

Effect of CTA Tube Current on Spot Sign Detection and Accuracy for Prediction of Intracerebral Hemorrhage Expansion

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Reduction of CT tube current is an effective strategy to minimize radiation load. However, tube current is also a major determinant of image quality. We investigated the impact of CTA tube current on spot sign detection and diagnostic performance for intracerebral hemorrhage expansion.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed a prospectively collected cohort of consecutive patients with primary intracerebral hemorrhage from January 2001 to April 2015 who underwent CTA. The study population was divided into 2 groups according to the median CTA tube current level: low current (<350 mA) and high current (≥350 mA). CTA first-pass readings for spot sign presence were independently analyzed by 2 readers. Baseline and follow-up hematoma volumes were assessed by semiautomated computer-assisted volumetric analysis. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, and accuracy of spot sign in predicting hematoma expansion were calculated.

RESULTS

This study included 709 patients (288 and 421 in the low- and high-current groups, respectively). A higher proportion of low-current scans identified at least 1 spot sign (20.8% versus 14.7%, P = .034), but hematoma expansion frequency was similar in the 2 groups (18.4% versus 16.2%, P = .434). Sensitivity and positive and negative predictive values were not significantly different between the 2 groups. Conversely, high-current scans showed superior specificity (91% versus 84%, P = .015) and overall accuracy (84% versus 77%, P = .038).

CONCLUSIONS

CTA obtained at high levels of tube current showed better diagnostic accuracy for prediction of hematoma expansion by using spot sign. These findings may have implications for future studies using the CTA spot sign to predict hematoma expansion for clinical trials.

Noncontrast Computed Tomography Hypodensities Predict Poor Outcome in Intracerebral Hemorrhage Patients

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Noncontrast computed tomographic (CT) hypodensities have been shown to be associated with hematoma expansion in intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), but their impact on functional outcome is yet to be determined. We evaluated whether baseline noncontrast CT hypodensities are associated with poor clinical outcome.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of a prospectively collected cohort of consecutive patients with primary ICH presenting to a single academic medical center between 1994 and 2016. The presence of CT hypodensities was assessed by 2 independent raters on the baseline CT. Unfavorable outcome was defined as a modified Rankin score >3 at 90 days. The associations between CT hypodensities and unfavorable outcome were investigated using uni- and multivariable logistic regression models.

RESULTS

During the study period, 1342 patients presented with ICH and 800 met restrictive inclusion criteria (baseline CT available for review, and 90-day outcome available). Three hundred and four (38%) patients showed hypodensities on CT, and 520 (65%) patients experienced unfavorable outcome. In univariate analysis, patients with unfavorable outcome were more likely to demonstrate hypodensities (48% versus 20%; P<0.0001). After adjustment for age, admission Glasgow coma scale, warfarin use, intraventricular hemorrhage, baseline ICH volume, and location, CT hypodensities were found to be independently associated with an increase in the odds of unfavorable outcome (odds ratio 1.70, 95% confidence interval [1.10-2.65]; P=0.018).

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of noncontract CT hypodensities at baseline independently predicts poor outcome and comes as a useful and widely available addition to our ability to predict ICH patients' clinical evolution.

Predicting Intracerebral Hemorrhage Growth With the Spot Sign: The Effect of Onset-to-Scan Time

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Hematoma expansion after acute intracerebral hemorrhage is common and is associated with early deterioration and poor clinical outcome. The computed tomographic angiography (CTA) spot sign is a promising predictor of expansion; however, frequency and predictive values are variable across studies, possibly because of differences in onset-to-CTA time. We performed a patient-level meta-analysis to define the relationship between onset-to-CTA time and frequency and predictive ability of the spot sign.

METHODS

We completed a systematic review for studies of CTA spot sign and hematoma expansion. We subsequently pooled patient-level data on the frequency and predictive values for significant hematoma expansion according to 5 predefined categorized onset-to-CTA times. We calculated spot-sign frequency both as raw and frequency-adjusted rates.

RESULTS

Among 2051 studies identified, 12 met our inclusion criteria. Baseline hematoma volume, spot-sign status, and time-to-CTA were available for 1176 patients, and 1039 patients had follow-up computed tomographies for hematoma expansion analysis. The overall spot sign frequency was 26%, decreasing from 39% within 2 hours of onset to 13% beyond 8 hours (P<0.001). There was a significant decrease in hematoma expansion in spot-positive patients as onset-to-CTA time increased (P=0.004), with positive predictive values decreasing from 53% to 33%.

CONCLUSIONS

The frequency of the CTA spot sign is inversely related to intracerebral hemorrhage onset-to-CTA time. Furthermore, the positive predictive value of the spot sign for significant hematoma expansion decreases as time-to-CTA increases. Our results offer more precise risk stratification for patients with acute intracerebral hemorrhage and will help refine clinical prediction rules for intracerebral hemorrhage expansion.

Detection and characterization of intracranial aneurysms: a 10-year multidetector CT angiography experience in a large center

BACKGROUND

CT angiography (CTA) is increasingly used for the detection, characterization, and follow-up of intracranial aneurysms. A lower threshold to request a CT angiogram may render a patient population that differs from previous studies primarily evaluated with conventional angiography. Our objective was to broaden our knowledge of the factors associated with aneurysm rupture and patient mortality in this population.

METHODS

All CTA studies performed over a 10-year period at a large neurovascular referral center were reviewed for the presence of an intracranial aneurysm. Patient demographics, mortality, CTA indication, aneurysm location, size, and rupture status were recorded.

RESULTS

2927 patients with aneurysms were identified among 29 003 CTAs. 17% of the aneurysms were ruptured at the time of imaging, 24% of aneurysms were incidentally identified, and multiple aneurysms were identified in 34% of patients. Aneurysms most commonly arose from the supraclinoid internal carotid artery (22%), the middle cerebral artery (18%), and the anterior communicating artery (13%). Male sex, age <50 years, aneurysms >6 mm, and aneurysms arising from the anterior communicating artery, posterior communicating artery, or the posterior circulation were independent predictors of aneurysm rupture. Independent mortality predictors included male sex, posterior circulation aneurysms, intraventricular hemorrhage, and intraparenchymal hemorrhage.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate that aneurysms detected on CTA that arise from the anterior communicating artery, posterior communicating artery, or the posterior circulation, measure >6 mm in size, occur in men, and in patients aged <50 years are associated with rupture.

Rate of Contrast Extravasation on Computed Tomographic Angiography Predicts Hematoma Expansion and Mortality in Primary Intracerebral Hemorrhage

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

In primary intracerebral hemorrhage, the presence of contrast extravasation after computed tomographic angiography (CTA), termed the spot sign, predicts hematoma expansion and mortality. Because the biological underpinnings of the spot sign are not fully understood, we investigated whether the rate of contrast extravasation, which may reflect the rate of bleeding, predicts expansion and mortality beyond the simple presence of the spot sign.

METHODS

Consecutive intracerebral hemorrhage patients with first-pass CTA followed by a 90-second delayed postcontrast CT (delayed CTA) were included. CTAs were reviewed for spot sign presence by 2 blinded readers. Spot sign volumes on first-pass and delayed CTA and intracerebral hemorrhage volumes were measured using semiautomated software. Extravasation rates were calculated and tested for association with hematoma expansion and mortality using uni- and multivariable logistic regressions.

RESULTS

One hundred and sixty-two patients were included, 48 (30%) of whom had ≥1 spot sign. Median spot sign volume was 0.04 mL on first-pass CTA and 0.4 mL on delayed CTA. Median extravasation rate was 0.23 mL/min overall and 0.30 mL/min among expanders versus 0.07 mL/min in nonexpanders. Extravasation rates were also significantly higher in patients who died in hospital: 0.27 mL/min versus 0.04 mL/min. In multivariable analysis, the extravasation rate was independently associated with in-hospital mortality (odds ratio, 1.09 [95% confidence interval, 1.04-1.18], P=0.004), 90-day mortality (odds ratio, 1.15 [95% confidence interval, 1.08-1.27]; P=0.0004), and hematoma expansion (odds ratio, 1.03 [95% confidence interval, 1.01-1.08]; P=0.047).

CONCLUSIONS

Contrast extravasation rate, or spot sign growth, further refines the ability to predict hematoma expansion and mortality. Our results support the hypothesis that the spot sign directly measures active bleeding in acute intracerebral hemorrhage.

Spot sign on 90-second delayed computed tomography angiography improves sensitivity for hematoma expansion and mortality: prospective study

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The computed tomography angiography (CTA) spot sign is a validated biomarker for poor outcome and hematoma expansion in intracerebral hemorrhage. The spot sign has proven to be a dynamic entity, with multimodal imaging proving to be of additional value. We investigated whether the addition of a 90-second delayed CTA acquisition would capture additional intracerebral hemorrhage patients with the spot sign and increase the sensitivity of the spot sign.

METHODS

We prospectively enrolled consecutive intracerebral hemorrhage patients undergoing first pass and 90-second delayed CTA for 18 months at a single academic center. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were performed to assess clinical and neuroimaging covariates for relationship with hematoma expansion and mortality.

RESULTS

Sensitivity of the spot sign for hematoma expansion on first pass CTA was 55%, which increased to 64% if the spot sign was present on either CTA acquisition. In multivariate analysis the spot sign presence was associated with significant hematoma expansion: odds ratio, 17.7 (95% confidence interval, 3.7-84.2; P=0.0004), 8.3 (95% confidence interval, 2.0-33.4; P=0.004), and 12.0 (95% confidence interval, 2.9-50.5; P=0.0008) if present on first pass, delayed, or either CTA acquisition, respectively. Spot sign presence on either acquisitions was also significant for mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrate improved sensitivity for predicting hematoma expansion and poor outcome by adding a 90-second delayed CTA, which may enhance selection of patients who may benefit from hemostatic therapy.

APOE ε variants increase risk of warfarin-related intracerebral hemorrhage

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to assess the effect of APOE ε variants on warfarin-related intracerebral hemorrhage (wICH), evaluated their predictive power, and tested for interaction with warfarin in causing wICH.

METHODS

This was a prospective, 2-stage (discovery and replication), case-control study. wICH was classified as lobar or nonlobar based on the location of the hematoma. Controls were sampled from ambulatory clinics (discovery) and random digit dialing (replication). APOE ε variants were directly genotyped. A case-control design and logistic regression analysis were utilized to test for association between APOE ε and wICH. A case-only design and logistic regression analysis were utilized to test for interaction between APOE ε and warfarin. Receiver operating characteristic curves were implemented to evaluate predictive power.

RESULTS

The discovery stage included 319 wICHs (44% lobar) and 355 controls. APOE ε2 was associated with lobar (odds ratio [OR] 2.46; p < 0.001) and nonlobar wICH (OR 1.67; p = 0.04), whereas ε4 was associated with lobar (OR 2.09; p < 0.001) but not nonlobar wICH (p = 0.35). The replication stage (63 wICHs and 1,030 controls) confirmed the association with ε2 (p = 0.03) and ε4 (p = 0.003) for lobar but not for nonlobar wICH (p > 0.20). Genotyping information on APOE ε variants significantly improved case/control discrimination of lobar wICH (C statistic 0.80). No statistical interaction between warfarin and APOE was found (p > 0.20).

CONCLUSIONS

APOE ε variants constitute strong risk factors for lobar wICH. APOE exerts its effect independently of warfarin, although power limitations render this absence of interaction preliminary. Evaluation of the predictive ability of APOE in cohort studies is warranted.

CT angiography spot sign in intracerebral hemorrhage predicts active bleeding during surgery

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether the CT angiography (CTA) spot sign marks bleeding complications during and after surgery for spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH).

METHODS

In a 2-center study of consecutive spontaneous ICH patients who underwent CTA followed by surgical hematoma evacuation, 2 experienced readers (blinded to clinical and surgical data) reviewed CTAs for spot sign presence. Blinded raters assessed active intraoperative and postoperative bleeding. The association between spot sign and active intraoperative bleeding, postoperative rebleeding, and residual ICH volumes was evaluated using univariable and multivariable logistic regression.

RESULTS

A total of 95 patients met inclusion criteria: 44 lobar, 17 deep, 33 cerebellar, and 1 brainstem ICH; ≥1 spot sign was identified in 32 patients (34%). The spot sign was the only independent marker of active bleeding during surgery (odds ratio [OR] 3.4; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.3-9.0). Spot sign (OR 4.1; 95% CI 1.1-17), female sex (OR 6.9; 95% CI 1.7-37), and antiplatelet use (OR 4.6; 95% CI 1.2-21) were predictive of postoperative rebleeding. Larger residual hematomas and postoperative rebleeding were associated with higher discharge case fatality (OR 3.4; 95% CI 1.1-11) and a trend toward increased case fatality at 3 months (OR 2.9; 95% CI 0.9-8.8).

CONCLUSIONS

The CTA spot sign is associated with more intraoperative bleeding, more postoperative rebleeding, and larger residual ICH volumes in patients undergoing hematoma evacuation for spontaneous ICH. The spot sign may therefore be useful to select patients for future surgical trials.

Risk factors for computed tomography angiography spot sign in deep and lobar intracerebral hemorrhage are shared

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Patients with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) who present with a spot sign on computed tomography angiography are at increased risk of hematoma expansion and poor outcome. Because primary ICH is the acute manifestation of chronic cerebral small vessel disease, we investigated whether different clinical or imaging characteristics predict spot sign presence, using ICH location as a surrogate for arteriolosclerosis- and cerebral amyloid angiopathy-related ICH.

METHODS

Patients with primary ICH and available computed tomography angiography at presentation were included. Predictors of spot sign were assessed using uni- and multivariable regression, stratified by ICH location.

RESULTS

Seven hundred forty-one patients were eligible, 335 (45%) deep and 406 (55%) lobar ICH. At least one spot sign was present in 76 (23%) deep and 102 (25%) lobar ICH patients. In multivariable regression, warfarin (odds ratio [OR], 2.42; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.01-5.71; P=0.04), baseline ICH volume (OR, 1.20; 95% CI, 1.09-1.33, per 10 mL increase; P<0.001), and time from symptom onset to computed tomography angiography (OR, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.80-0.96, per hour; P=0.009) were associated with the spot sign in deep ICH. Predictors of spot sign in lobar ICH were warfarin (OR, 3.95; 95% CI, 1.87-8.51; P<0.001) and baseline ICH volume (OR, 1.20; 95% CI, 1.10-1.31, per 10 mL increase; P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The most potent associations with spot sign are shared between deep and lobar ICH, suggesting that the acute bleeding process that arises in the setting of different chronic small vessel diseases shares commonalities.

Predicting hematoma expansion after primary intracerebral hemorrhage

IMPORTANCE

Many clinical trials focus on restricting hematoma expansion following acute intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), but selecting those patients at highest risk of hematoma expansion is challenging.

OBJECTIVE

To develop a prediction score for hematoma expansion in patients with primary ICH.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

Prospective cohort study at 2 urban academic medical centers among patients having primary ICH with available baseline and follow-up computed tomography for volumetric analysis (817 patients in the development cohort and 195 patients in the independent validation cohort).

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Hematoma expansion was assessed using semiautomated software and was defined as more than 6 mL or 33% growth. Covariates were tested for association with hematoma expansion using univariate and multivariable logistic regression. A 9-point prediction score was derived based on the regression estimates and was subsequently tested in the independent validation cohort.

RESULTS

Hematoma expansion occurred in 156 patients (19.1%). In multivariable analysis, predictors of expansion were as follows: warfarin sodium use, the computed tomography angiography spot sign, and shorter time to computed tomography (≤ 6 vs >6 hours) (P < .001 for all), as well as baseline ICH volume (<30 [reference], 30-60 [P = .03], and >60 [P = .005] mL). The incidence of hematoma expansion steadily increased with higher scores. In the independent validation cohort (n = 195), our prediction score performed well and showed strong association with hematoma expansion (odds ratio, 4.59; P < .001 for a high vs low score). The C statistics for the score were 0.72 for the development cohort and 0.77 for the independent validation cohort.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

A 9-point prediction score for hematoma expansion was developed and independently validated. The results open a path for individualized treatment and trial design in ICH aimed at patients at highest risk of hematoma expansion with maximum potential for therapeutic benefit.

Meta-analysis of genome-wide association studies identifies 1q22 as a susceptibility locus for intracerebral hemorrhage

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is the stroke subtype with the worst prognosis and has no established acute treatment. ICH is classified as lobar or nonlobar based on the location of ruptured blood vessels within the brain. These different locations also signal different underlying vascular pathologies. Heritability estimates indicate a substantial genetic contribution to risk of ICH in both locations. We report a genome-wide association study of this condition that meta-analyzed data from six studies that enrolled individuals of European ancestry. Case subjects were ascertained by neurologists blinded to genotype data and classified as lobar or nonlobar based on brain computed tomography. ICH-free control subjects were sampled from ambulatory clinics or random digit dialing. Replication of signals identified in the discovery cohort with p < 1 × 10(-6) was pursued in an independent multiethnic sample utilizing both direct and genome-wide genotyping. The discovery phase included a case cohort of 1,545 individuals (664 lobar and 881 nonlobar cases) and a control cohort of 1,481 individuals and identified two susceptibility loci: for lobar ICH, chromosomal region 12q21.1 (rs11179580, odds ratio [OR] = 1.56, p = 7.0 × 10(-8)); and for nonlobar ICH, chromosomal region 1q22 (rs2984613, OR = 1.44, p = 1.6 × 10(-8)). The replication included a case cohort of 1,681 individuals (484 lobar and 1,194 nonlobar cases) and a control cohort of 2,261 individuals and corroborated the association for 1q22 (p = 6.5 × 10(-4); meta-analysis p = 2.2 × 10(-10)) but not for 12q21.1 (p = 0.55; meta-analysis p = 2.6 × 10(-5)). These results demonstrate biological heterogeneity across ICH subtypes and highlight the importance of ascertaining ICH cases accordingly.

Anatomic pattern of intracerebral hemorrhage expansion: relation to CT angiography spot sign and hematoma center

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

We sought to identify baseline determinants of the anatomic pattern of hematoma expansion in patients with intracerebral hemorrhage and spot sign.

METHODS

We coregistered baseline and follow-up CT scans from 15 intracerebral hemorrhage patients and measured growth at each surface node from baseline to follow-up hematoma. We analyzed the effects of proximity to the spot sign or hematoma center on distance of expansion, controlling for covariates.

RESULTS

There was substantial node-to-node variation in the extent of expansion around each hematoma surface (mean coefficient of variation for expansion distance, 0.43; 95% confidence interval, 0.39-0.48), indicating nonuniform expansion. Closer proximity to the hematoma center was independently associated with increased expansion (0.185 mm greater expansion for each 1 mm closer to the center; P<0.0001). Closer proximity to the spot sign was not independently associated with increased expansion in models including both terms.

CONCLUSIONS

Hemorrhages expand nonuniformly around their surface with a tendency for greater expansion closer to their center. These findings provide a novel framework for analyzing mechanisms underlying hemorrhage growth and response to treatment.

Predictors of hematoma volume in deep and lobar supratentorial intracerebral hemorrhage

IMPORTANCE

Hematoma volume is the strongest predictor of outcome in intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Despite known differences in the underlying biology between deep and lobar ICHs, limited data are available on location specificity of factors reported to affect hematoma volume.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate whether determinants of ICH volume differ by topography, we sought to estimate location-specific effects for potential predictors of this radiological outcome.

DESIGN

Prospective cohort study.

SETTING

Academic medical center.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 744 supratentorial primary ICH patients (388 deep and 356 lobar) aged older than 18 years admitted between January 1, 2000, and December 31, 2010.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Intracerebral hemorrhage volume measured from the computed tomography scan obtained on presentation to the emergency department. Linear regression analysis, stratified by ICH location, was implemented to identify determinants of log-transformed ICH volume.

RESULTS

Median ICH volume was larger in lobar hemorrhages (39 mL; interquartile range, 16-75 mL) than in deep hemorrhages (13 mL; interquartile range, 5-40 mL; P < .001). In multivariable linear regression, independent predictors of deep ICH volume were intensity of anticoagulation (β = 0.32; standard error [SE] = 0.08; P < .001; test for trend across 4 categories of the international normalized ratio), history of coronary artery disease (β = 0.33; SE = 0.17; P = .05), male sex (β = 0.28; SE = 0.14; P = .05), and age (β = -0.02; SE = 0.01; P = .001). Independent predictors of lobar ICH volume were intensity of anticoagulation (β = 0.14; SE = 0.06; P = .02) and antiplatelet treatment (β = 0.27; SE = 0.13; P = .03).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Predictors of hematoma volume only partially overlap between deep and lobar ICHs. These findings suggest that the mechanisms that determine the extent of bleeding differ for deep and lobar ICHs. Further studies are needed to characterize the specific biological pathways that underlie the observed associations.

Prospective validation of the computed tomographic angiography spot sign score for intracerebral hemorrhage

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) results in high mortality and morbidity for patients. Previous retrospective studies correlated the spot sign score (SSSc) with ICH expansion, mortality, and clinical outcome among ICH survivors. We performed a prospective study to validate the SSSc for the prediction of ICH expansion, mortality, and clinical outcome among survivors.

METHODS

We prospectively included consecutive patients with primary ICH presenting to a single institution for a 1.5-year period. All patients underwent baseline noncontrast computed tomography (CT) and multidetector CT angiography performed within 24 hours of admission and a follow-up noncontrast CT within 48 hours after the initial CT. The ICH volume was calculated on the noncontrast CT images using semiautomated software. The SSSc was calculated on the multidetector CT angiographic source images. We assessed in-hospital mortality and modified Rankin Scale at discharge and at 3 months among survivors. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to determine independent predictors of hematoma expansion, in-hospital mortality, and poor clinical outcome.

RESULTS

A total of 131 patients met the inclusion criteria. Of the 131 patients, a spot sign was detected in 31 patients (24%). In a multivariate analysis, the SSSc predicted significant hematoma expansion (odds ratio, 3.1; 95% confidence interval, 1.77-5.39; P≤0.0001), in-hospital mortality (odds ratio, 4.1; 95% confidence interval, 2.11-7.94; P≤0.0001), and poor clinical outcome (odds ratio, 3; 95% confidence interval, 1.4-4.42; P=0.004). In addition, the SSSc was an accurate grading scale for ICH expansion, modified Rankin Scale at discharge, and in-hospital mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

The SSSc demonstrated a strong stepwise correlation with hematoma expansion and clinical outcome in patients with primary ICH.

Computed tomography angiography spot sign does not predict case fatality in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage with intraparenchymal extension

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Many patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) with intraparenchymal extension develop early hematoma expansion, which is not explained by aneurysmal rerupture in half of cases. In patients with primary intracerebral hemorrhage, the computed tomography angiography (CTA) spot sign predicts hematoma expansion and poor outcome. We conducted a 2-center prospective cohort study to evaluate whether CTA spot sign predicts case fatality in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage with intraparenchymal extension.

METHODS

We studied consecutive patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage with intraparenchymal extension. Two experienced readers, blinded to clinical data, analyzed CTAs for spot sign presence. We assessed the proportion of patients with the CTA spot sign and tested its association with in-hospital and 90-day case fatality, using univariable and multivariable logistic regression.

RESULTS

In 32 of 236 patients (14%), we found at least 1 spot sign. Acute surgical hematoma evacuation with aneurysm occlusion occurred in 120 patients (51%). The overall in-hospital case fatality rate was 37%. The CTA spot sign was not associated with in-hospital (multivariable odds ratio, 0.51 [95% confidence interval, 0.06-3.26]) or 90-day (multivariable odds ratio, 0.59 [0.21-1.65]) case fatality.

CONCLUSIONS

The found frequency of CTA spot signs is lower after aneurysmal than primary intracerebral hemorrhage and is not associated with in-hospital or 90-day case fatality in patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage with intraparenchymal extension.

Hematoma expansion following acute intracerebral hemorrhage

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), the most devastating form of stroke, has no specific therapy proven to improve outcome by randomized controlled trial. Location and baseline hematoma volume are strong predictors of mortality, but are nonmodifiable by the time of diagnosis. Expansion of the initial hematoma is a further marker of poor prognosis that may be at least partly preventable. Several risk factors for hematoma expansion have been identified, including baseline ICH volume, early presentation after symptom onset, anticoagulation, and the CT angiography spot sign. Although the biological mechanisms of hematoma expansion remain unclear, accumulating evidence supports a model of ongoing secondary bleeding from ruptured adjacent vessels surrounding the initial bleeding site. Several large clinical trials testing therapies aimed at preventing hematoma expansion are in progress, including aggressive blood pressure reduction, treatment with recombinant factor VIIa guided by CT angiography findings, and surgical intervention for superficial hematomas without intraventricular extension. Hematoma expansion is so far the only marker of outcome that is amenable to treatment and thus a potentially important therapeutic target.

Burden of blood pressure-related alleles is associated with larger hematoma volume and worse outcome in intracerebral hemorrhage

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is the acute manifestation of a progressive disease of the cerebral small vessels. The severity of this disease seems to influence not only risk of ICH but also the size of the hematoma. As the burden of high blood pressure-related alleles is associated with both hypertension-related end-organ damage and risk of ICH, we sought to determine whether this burden influences ICH baseline hematoma volume.

METHODS

Prospective study in subjects of European descent with supratentorial ICH who underwent genome-wide genotyping. Forty-two single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with high blood pressure were identified from a publicly available database. A genetic risk score was constructed based on these single nucleotide polymorphisms. The score was used as the independent variable in univariate and multivariate regression models for admission ICH volume and poor clinical outcome (modified Rankin Scale, 3-6).

RESULTS

A total of 323 ICH cases were enrolled in the study (135 deep and 188 lobar intracranial hematomas). The blood pressure-based genetic risk score was associated with both baseline hematoma volume and poor clinical outcome specifically in deep ICH. In multivariate regression analyses, each additional SD of the score increased mean deep ICH volume by 28% (or 2.7 mL increase; β=0.28; SE=0.11; P=0.009) and risk of poor clinical outcome by 71% (odds ratio, 1.71; 95% confidence interval, 1.05-2.80; P=0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

Increasing numbers of high blood pressure-related alleles are associated with mean baseline hematoma volume and poor clinical outcome in ICH. These findings suggest that the small vessel vasculopathy responsible for the occurrence of the hemorrhage also influences its volume.

SCORE-IT: the Spot Sign score in restricting ICH growth─an Atach-II ancillary study

INTRODUCTION

The ATACH-II trial is designed to evaluate whether intensive blood pressure reduction can reduce hematoma growth and improve outcome. However, it is difficult to determine, at presentation, which patients are at highest risk of ongoing bleeding, and will receive the most clinical benefit from blood pressure therapy. It may be that improved predictive markers will lead to efficient, personalized selection of optimal therapy. We hypothesize that specific imaging findings on CT angiography (CTA) and MRI will mark those patients who receive the most benefit from intensive blood pressure reduction.

METHODS

Many patients enrolled in ATACH-II will undergo CTA and/or MRI as part of routine clinical care. We will perform a blinded analysis of these images. For CTA, we will determine the presence of contrast pooling (also termed contrast extravasation or the "Spot Sign"). In addition, we will calculate a Spot Sign Score, a score that includes number of Spot Signs, diameter, and contrast density. For MRI, we will focus on the presence, number, and location of cerebral microbleeds (CMBs) on sensitive T2*-weighted MRI sequences.

RESULTS

We will test the hypothesis that patients with a Spot Sign will receive clinical benefit from intensive blood pressure reduction. In addition, we will determine whether patients with the highest Spot Sign Scores receive the most benefit from intensive blood pressure reduction. Finally, we will determine whether the absence of CMBs marks those at higher risk for hematoma expansion, and therefore more likely to benefit from treatment.

CONCLUSION

This ancillary study offers the tremendous opportunity to determine whether imaging findings can risk stratify ICH patients for acute therapies aimed at limiting hematoma growth.

Apolipoprotein E genotype is associated with CT angiography spot sign in lobar intracerebral hemorrhage

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The CT angiography (CTA) spot sign predicts hematoma expansion and poor outcome in patients with primary intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). The biological underpinnings of the spot sign remain poorly understood; it may be that the underlying vasculopathy influences its presence. Therefore, we conducted a study to identify genetic predictors of the spot sign.

METHODS

In an ongoing prospective cohort study, we analyzed 371 patients with CTA and genetic data available. CTAs were reviewed for the spot sign by 2 experienced readers, blinded to clinical data, according to validated criteria. Analyses were stratified by ICH location.

RESULTS

In multivariate analysis, patients on warfarin were more likely to have a spot sign regardless of ICH location (OR, 3.85; 95% CI, 1.33-11.13 in deep ICH and OR, 2.86; 95% CI, 1.33-6.13 in lobar ICH). Apolipoprotein E ε2, but not ε4, was associated with the presence of a spot sign in lobar ICH (OR, 2.09; 95% CI, 1.05-4.19). There was no effect for ε2 or ε4 in deep ICH.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with ICH on warfarin are more likely to present with a spot sign regardless of ICH location. Among patients with lobar ICH, those who possess the apolipoprotein E ε2 allele are more likely to have a spot sign. Given the established relationship between apolipoprotein E ε2 and vasculopathic changes in cerebral amyloid angiopathy, our findings suggest that both hemostatic factors and vessel pathology influence spot sign presence.

Apolipoprotein E genotype predicts hematoma expansion in lobar intracerebral hemorrhage

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Hematoma volume is the most potent predictor of outcome in spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), and hematoma expansion after hospital presentation occurs in up to 40% of individuals. Among patients with lobar ICH, the apolipoprotein E (APOE) ε2 allele predicts larger hematoma volumes at presentation. We investigated whether the ε2 allele also identifies individuals at increased risk of hematoma expansion.

METHODS

We analyzed 510 patients with primary ICH and genetic data available from an ongoing prospective cohort study. Baseline and follow-up CT scans were assessed for ICH location and volume using computer-assisted volumetric methods.

RESULTS

Individuals with lobar ICH who possessed APOE ε2 were at increased risk for hematoma expansion (OR, 2.72; 95% CI, 1.19-6.23; P=0.009). The highest odds of expansion were in patients who qualified for the diagnosis of cerebral amyloid angiopathy-related ICH and carried the APOE ε2 allele (OR, 6.02; 95% CI, 1.60-22.58; P=0.008). There was no effect of ε2 on hematoma expansion in deep ICH and APOE ε4 had no effect on hematoma expansion in lobar or deep ICH.

CONCLUSIONS

Possession of APOE ε2 predisposes individuals with lobar ICH to hematoma expansion. This effect is even more pronounced in patients with amyloid angiopathy-related ICH, consistent with the ε2 allele's role in vascular amyloid deposition and vessel fragility.

Therapeutic strategies in acute intracerebral hemorrhage

Intracerebral hemorrhage is a devastating disease, and no specific therapy has been proven to reduce mortality in a randomized controlled trial. However, management in a neuroscience intensive care unit does appear to improve outcomes, suggesting that many available therapies do in fact provide benefit. In the acute phase of intracerebral hemorrhage care, strategies aimed at minimizing ongoing bleeding include reversal of anticoagulation and modest blood pressure reduction. In addition, the monitoring and regulation of glucose levels, temperature, and, in selected cases, intracranial pressure are recommended by many groups. Selected patients may benefit from hematoma evacuation or external ventricular drainage. Ongoing clinical trials are examining aggressive blood pressure management, hemostatic therapy, platelet transfusion, stereotactic hematoma evacuation, and intraventricular thrombolysis. Finally, preventing recurrence of intracerebral hemorrhage is of pivotal importance, and tight blood pressure management is paramount.

CT angiography spot sign predicts in-hospital mortality in patients with secondary intracerebral hemorrhage

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

The presence of active contrast extravasation during CT angiography, the spot sign, is a potent predictor of in-hospital mortality in patients with primary intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). However, its predictive value in patients with ICH due to a vascular abnormality, secondary ICH (SICH), is unknown. The aim of this study was to determine the clinical and radiological predictors of a spot sign and in-hospital mortality in patients with SICH.

METHODS

Two experienced readers independently reviewed CT angiograms performed on 215 consecutive patients presenting to the emergency department with SICH over a 10-year period to assess the presence of spot signs according to strict radiological criteria. Differences in reader interpretation were resolved by consensus. Medical records were reviewed for baseline clinical characteristics and in-hospital mortality. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the clinical and radiological predictors of a spot sign and in-hospital mortality in patients with SICH.

RESULTS

Spot signs were identified in 31 of 215 patients with SICH (14.4%), four of which were delayed spot signs (12.9%). Spot signs were most common in patients with arteriovenous fistulas (42%), Moyamoya (40%), elevated admission blood glucose (23%) and large intraventricular hemorrhage volumes (29%). Spot signs were most predictive of in-hospital mortality in patients with aneurysms of the anterior cerebral artery (100%) and anterior communicating artery (75%). In univariate analysis, the presence of a spot sign significantly increased the risk of in-hospital mortality in patients with SICH (38.7%, OR 2.2, 95% CI 1.0 to 4.9, p=0.0497). However, in multivariate logistic regression analysis the admission Glasgow Coma Scale was the only independent predictor of in-hospital mortality in patients with SICH (OR 2.8, 95% CI 1.6 to 5.1, p=0.0004).

CONCLUSION

The spot sign identifies patients with SICH at increased risk of in-hospital mortality. However, the admission Glasgow Coma Scale was the only independent predictor of in-hospital mortality in this cohort of patients with SICH.

The spot sign score in primary intracerebral hemorrhage identifies patients at highest risk of in-hospital mortality and poor outcome among survivors

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The spot sign score is a potent predictor of hematoma expansion in patients with primary intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). We aim to determine the accuracy of this scoring system for the prediction of in-hospital mortality and poor outcome among survivors in patients with primary ICH.

METHODS

Three neuroradiologists retrospectively reviewed CT angiograms (CTAs) performed in 573 consecutive patients who presented to our Emergency Department with primary ICH over a 9-year period to determine the presence and scoring of spot signs according to strict criteria. Baseline ICH and intraventricular hemorrhage volumes were independently determined by computer-assisted volumetric analysis. Medical records were independently reviewed for baseline clinical characteristics and modified Rankin Scale (mRS) at hospital discharge and 3-month follow-up. Poor outcome among survivors was defined as a mRS > or =4 at 3-month follow-up.

RESULTS

We identified spot signs in 133 of 573 CTAs (23.2%), 11 of which were delayed spot signs (8.3%). The presence of any spot sign increased the risk of in-hospital mortality (55.6%, OR 4.0, 95% CI 2.6 to 5.9, P<0.0001) and poor outcome among survivors at 3-month follow-up (50.8%, OR 2.5, 95% CI 1.4 to 4.3, P<0.0014). The spot sign score successfully predicted an escalating risk of both outcome measures. In multivariate analysis, the spot sign score was an independent predictor of in-hospital mortality (OR 1.5, 95% CI 1.2 to 1.9, P<0.0002) and poor outcome among survivors at 3-month follow-up (OR 1.6, 95% CI 1.1 to 2.1, P<0.0065).

CONCLUSIONS

The spot sign score is an independent predictor of in-hospital mortality and poor outcome among survivors in primary ICH.