Defining mild stroke: outcomes analysis of treated and untreated mild stroke patients

Association of perfusion variables with functional outcome in acute mild ischemic stroke patients or transient ischemic attack

OBJECTIVE

Some patients with acute minor stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) are at risk for a poor prognosis. There are a limited number of studies that have investigated the functional prognosis of acute mild ischemic stroke or TIA based on imaging indicators. This study aims to explore the relationship between Perfusion Variables and poor prognosis in patients with mild ischemic stroke or TIA.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective analysis was conducted on a cohort of 344 patients with mild ischemic stroke or TIA, who were admitted and treated at the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University between January 2016 and March 2022. The criteria were National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores of ≤5. Poor outcome was defined as a modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score of ≥2 points at 90 days. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to identify the risk factors associated with clinical outcomes. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was used to explore the cutoff value of factors.

RESULTS

Following a 3-month follow-up period, 49 (12.4 %) out of the 344 patients with mild stroke or TIA demonstrated a poor prognosis. Multivariable regression analysis identified mismatch volume as independent predictors of a poor 90-day prognosis. The ROC curve analysis indicated that a mismatch volume exceeding 16.5 ml was associated with a higher risk of unfavorable functional outcomes.

CONCLUSION

A mismatch volume of ≥16.5mL predicted poor functional outcome in mild stroke or TIA patients.

Intravenous alteplase in minor nondisabling ischemic stroke: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Minor ischemic stroke, defined as National Institute of Health Stroke Scale score of 0-5 on admission, represents half of all acute ischemic strokes. The role of intravenous alteplase (IVA) among patients with minor stroke is inconclusive; therefore, we evaluated clinical outcomes of these patients treated with or without IVA.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We searched Medline, Embase, Scopus, and the Cochrane library until August 1, 2023. Inclusion was restricted to the English literature of studies that reported on minor nondisabling stroke patients treated with or without IVA. Odds ratios (ORs) with their corresponding 95% CIs were utilized using a random-effects model. Efficacy outcomes included rates of excellent (modified Rankin scale [mRS] of 0-1) and good (mRS of 0-2) functional outcome at 90 days. The main safety outcome was symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH).

RESULTS

Five eligible studies, two RCTs and three observational studies, comprising 2764 patients (31.8% female) met inclusion criteria. IVA was administered to 1559 (56.4%) patients. Pooled analysis of the two RCTs revealed no difference between the two groups in terms of 90-days excellent functional outcomes (OR 0.76 [95% CI, 0.51-1.13]; I2 = 0%) and sICH rates (OR 3.76 [95% CI, 0.61-23.20]). No significant differences were observed between the groups in terms of good functional outcomes, 90-day mortality, and 90-day stroke recurrence.

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis of minor nondisabling stroke suggests that IVA did not prove more beneficial compared to no-IVA.

Person and Environment Factors Supporting Self-Care Performance and Social Participation After Mild Stroke

Mild stroke survivors seldom receive occupational therapy services as their deficits are assumed to be minor enough to not affect their daily occupations. Yet many mild stroke survivors report deficits in self-care performance and social participation. This study investigates person and environment factors influencing self-care performance and social participation among mild stroke survivors, using the Person-Environment-Occupation-Performance (PEOP) model. A retrospective cohort analysis of 736 mild stroke survivors was conducted using electronic health records. Person factors included demographic characteristics and clinical characteristics, and environment factors included the Social Vulnerability Index. The analysis included logistic regression. Approximately, 10% of patients reported deficits in self-care or social participation. Disability level was the only person factor associated with self-care performance. Person factors affecting social participation included mobility and unemployment. Socioeconomic status was associated with both occupation measures. Occupational therapy practitioners must address the person and environment factors affecting mild stroke survivors' self-care performance and social participation.

The effect of argatroban on early neurological deterioration and outcomes in minor ischemic stroke: preliminary findings

Background

Minor ischemic stroke (MIS) is associated with early neurological deterioration (END) and poor prognosis. Here, we investigated whether argatroban administration can mitigate MIS-associated END and improve functional outcomes by monitoring activated partial thrombin time (APTT).

Methods

Data were collected for patients with MIS admitted to our hospital from January 2019 to December 2022. Patients were divided into a dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) group (aspirin + clopidogrel) and an argatroban group (aspirin + argatroban). Those in the latter group who achieved a target APTT of 1.5-3-fold that of baseline and <100 s at 2 h after argatroban infusion were included in the argatroban subgroup. The primary outcome was the END rate of the DAPT group versus that of the argatroban group or the argatroban subgroup. Secondary outcomes included the proportion of patients with modified Rankin Scale (mRS) 0-2 at 7 and 90 days. In addition, baseline date were compared between patients with and without END in the argatroban group.

Results

363 patients were included in the DAPT group and 270 in the argatroban group. There were no significant differences in any above outcome between them. 207 pairs were included in the DAPT group and the argatroban subgroup after 1:1 propensity score matching (PSM). Significant differences were observed in the proportion of END (OR, 2.337; 95% CI, 1.200-4.550, p = 0.011) and mRS 0-2 at 7 days (OR, 0.624; 95% CI, 0.415-0.939, p = 0.023), but not in mRS 0-2 at 90 days or the hemorrhagic events between the two groups. In the argatroban group, univariate analysis showed that the rate of diabetes (OR, 2.316; 95% CI, 1.107-4.482, p = 0.023), initial random blood glucose (OR, 1.235; 95% CI, 1.070-1.425, p = 0.004), drinking history (OR, 0.445; 95% CI, 0.210-0.940, p = 0.031) or those reaching the target APTT (OR, 0.418; 95% CI, 0.184-0.949, p = 0.033) was significantly different among patients with and without END. However, there were no statistical differences in these parameters between them following multivariate analysis.

Conclusion

In patients with MIS, argatroban administration and reaching the target APTT can reduce the incidence of END and improve short-term functional prognosis.

Endovascular Treatment of Medium Vessel Occlusion Stroke

Approximately one-third of acute ischemic strokes with an identifiable vessel occlusion are caused by medium vessel occlusion (MeVO), that is, nonlarge vessel occlusions that are potentially amenable to endovascular treatment (EVT). Management of patients with MeVO is challenging in many ways: detecting MeVOs can be challenging, particularly for inexperienced physicians, and in busy clinical routine, MeVOs, therefore, remain sometimes undiagnosed. While the clinical course of MeVO stroke with medical management, including intravenous thrombolysis, is by no means, benign, it is more favorable compared with large vessel occlusion. At the same time, EVT complication rates are higher, and thus, the marginal benefit of EVT beyond best medical management is expected to be smaller and more challenging to detect if it were present. Several randomized controlled trials are currently underway to investigate whether and to what degree patients with MeVO may benefit from EVT and will soon provide robust data for evidence-based MeVO EVT decision-making. In this review, we discuss different ways of defining MeVOs, strategies to optimize MeVO detection on imaging, and considerations for EVT decision-making in the setting of MeVO stroke. We discuss the technical challenges related to MeVO EVT and conclude with an overview of currently ongoing MeVO EVT trials.

Endovascular therapy versus medical management for mild strokes due to medium and distal vessel occlusions

BACKGROUND

Distal and medium vessel occlusion (DMVO) strokes account for up to 40% of all acute ischemic strokes, many of which have a low initial deficit severity. Increasingly, endovascular treatment (EVT) is considered for these patients. However, there is a paucity of data comparing potential safety and efficacy of EVT versus best medical management (BMT) in these patients, particularly when presenting with mild symptoms.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed consecutive DMVO patients with NIHSS ≤6 who presented between January 2018 and December 2021 within 24 h from last seen well. We compared early and late clinical outcomes, as well as safety outcomes using multivariable linear and logistic regression analyses to determine whether EVT was independently associated with the outcomes of interest.

RESULTS

We included 80 subjects that fulfilled our study criteria (n = 41 BMT and n = 39 EVT). On adjusted analyses, when comparing EVT and BMT groups, there was no statistical difference in the NIHSS at discharge (Coefficient = -0.6, 95%-CI = -3.45-2.26, p = 0.678) or in the modified Rankin scale (mRS) at discharge (Coefficient = 0.37, 95%-CI = -0.52-1.25, p = 0.408). Furthermore, there was no difference in the 3-month mRS defined as good (mRS 0-2) (OR = 0.56, 95%-CI = 0.17-1.83, p = 0.341) or excellent (mRS 0-1) (OR = 0.45, 95%-CI = 0.15-1.34, p = 0.152). Finally, there was no difference in the incidence of all-type parenchymal hemorrhage (OR = 0.9, 95%-CI = 0.22-3.62, p = 0.879).

CONCLUSIONS

We found that among DMVO patients with low admission NIHSS treatment with EVT versus BMT was associated with similar outcomes. Larger prospective studies are required to confirm these findings.

The use of alteplase, although safe, does not offer clear clinical advantages when mild stroke is non-disabling

Introduction

It is unknown whether alteplase is effective and safe in patients with mild acute ischemic stroke (AIS). Determining whether symptoms are "disabling" or not is a crucial factor in the management of these patients. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of alteplase in patients with mild, non-disabling AIS.

Methods

We included all consecutive patients admitted for AIS at our institution from January 2015 to May 2022 who presented a baseline NIHSS score of 0-5 and fit the criteria to receive intravenous thrombolysis. In order to select only subjects with non-disabling AIS, we excluded patients who scored more than 1 point in the following NIHSS single items: vision, language, neglect, and single limb. Patients who scored at least 1 point in the NIHSS consciousness item were excluded as well. This study is a retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected database.

Results

After the application of the exclusion criteria, we included 319 patients, stratified into patients receiving and not receiving alteplase based on non-disabling symptoms. The two groups were comparable regarding demographic and clinical data. Rates of a 3-month favorable outcome, defined as a 3-month mRS score of 0-1, were similar, being 82.3% and 86.1% in the treated and untreated patients, respectively. Hemorrhagic complications and mortality occurred infrequently and were not affected by alteplase treatment.

Discussion

This observational study suggests that the use of alteplase, although safe, is not associated with a better outcome in highly selected patients with non-disabling AIS.

Best medical management versus intravenous thrombolysis for mild non-disabling ischemic stroke: A prospective noninferiority registry study

OBJECTIVES

The efficacy and safety of intravenous thrombolysis uncertain in patients with non-disabling mild ischemic stroke. Our aim was to investigate whether best medical management only is noninferior to intravenous thrombolysis plus best medical management therapy for achieving favorable functional outcome at 90 days.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In a prospective acute ischemic stroke registry from 2018 through 2020, 314 non-disabling mild ischemic stroke patients received best medical management only and 638 underwent intravenous thrombolysis plus best medical management. The primary outcome was modified Rankin Scale ≤1 at Day 90. The noninferiority margin was -5%. Secondary outcomes of hemorrhagic transformation, early neurologic deterioration and mortality were also evaluated.

RESULTS

The best medical management only was noninferior to the combined therapy of intravenous thrombolysis and best medical management with regard to the primary outcome (unadjusted risk difference, 1.16%; 95% CI, -3.48% ∼ 5.8%; p = 0.0046 for noninferiority; adjusted risk difference, 3.01%; 95% CI, -3.39% ∼ 9.41%). After propensity score matching, p < 0.0001 for noninferiority. RD, 4.03%; 95% CI, -1.59% ∼ 9.69%. p < 0.0001 for noninferiority. Adjusted RD, 5.23%; 95% CI, -1.88% ∼ 9.97%. The occurrence of hemorrhagic transformation was significantly increased in the group of combination therapy (OR, 4.26; 95% CI, 1.30 to 13.99; p = 0.008), while no significant difference was detected in early neurologic deterioration (OR, 1.11; 95% CI, 0.49-2.52; p = 0.808) and mortality (OR, 0.57; 95% CI, 0.20 to 1.69; p = 0.214) between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

In the present study, we found the best medical management only was noninferior to the combination therapy of intravenous thrombolysis plus best medical management for non-disabling mild ischemic stroke within 4.5 h after onset. Best medical management may be a treatment of choice for non-disabling mild ischemic stroke patients. Further randomized controlled studies are warranted.

Neuroimaging in Patient Selection for Thrombectomy, From the AJR Special Series on Emergency Radiology

Endovascular thrombectomy has become the standard-of-care treatment for carefully selected patients with acute ischemic stroke due to a large-vessel occlusion of the anterior circulation. Neuroimaging plays a vital role in determining patient eligibility for thrombectomy, both in the early (0-6 hours from symptom onset) and late (> 6 to 24 hours from symptom onset) time windows. Various neuroimaging algorithms are used to determine thrombectomy eligibility, and each algorithm must be optimized for institutional workflow. In this review, we describe common imaging modalities and recommended algorithms for the evaluation of patients for endovascular thrombectomy. We also discuss emerging patient populations who might qualify for thrombectomy in the coming years.

Standard clinical and imaging-based small vessel disease parameters associated with mild stroke versus non-mild stroke

Background

Mild stroke has variable outcomes, and there is an ongoing debate regarding whether the administration of thrombolytics improves outcomes in this subgroup of stroke patients. Having a better understanding of the features of mild stroke may help identify patients who are at risk of poor outcomes.

Objective

The objective of this study is to evaluate the association of clinical and imaging-based small vessel disease features (white matter hyperintensities and cerebral microbleeds) with stroke severity and clinical outcomes in patients with mild stroke.

Methods

In this retrospective study, mild stroke was defined as a National Institute of Health stroke scale (NIHSS) score <5. Clinical, laboratory and imaging data were compared between patients with mild stroke versus non-mild stroke (NIHSS≥5). Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of mild stroke and poor discharge outcome.

Results

Among 296 patients included in the study, 131 patients (44%) had mild stroke. On multivariate analysis, patients with mild stroke were three times more likely to have sensory symptoms [odds ratio (OR) = 2.9; 95% confidence interval (CI) = (1.2-6.8)] and four times more likely to have stroke due to small vessel disease (OR = 3.7; 95%CI = 1.4-9.9). Among patients with mild stroke, higher age (OR = 1.1; 95%CI = 1.02-1.1), presence of cerebral microbleed (OR = 4.5; 95%CI = 1.5-13.8), vertigo (OR = 7.3; 95%CI = 1.2-45.1) and weakness (OR = 5.0; 95%CI = 1.2-20.3) as presenting symptoms were more likely to have poor discharge outcome.

Conclusion

Sensory symptoms and stroke due to small vessel disease are more common in mild stroke than non-mild stroke. Among patients with mild stroke, presence of cerebral microbleeds on imaging and symptoms of muscle weakness are associated with poor discharge outcome. Larger studies are needed to assess the impact of cerebral microbleed on mild stroke outcomes and risk stratify the benefit of thrombolytics in this group.

Factors associated with post-stroke social participation: A quantitative study based on the ICF framework

BACKGROUND

Post-stroke social participation is a major determinant of quality of life and life satisfaction. However, few data relating to participation determinants are available, especially the influence of psychological factors and factors related to the living environment.

OBJECTIVES

This study investigated determinants of post-stroke social participation within the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health framework.

METHODS

We contacted people with stroke who had been hospitalized in the Rhône County, included in a previous cohort study, were aged ≥18 years and were not institutionalized. The primary outcome was social participation measured with the Stroke Impact Scale (SIS) 2.0. We performed multiple hierarchical linear regressions to test the following predictors: clinical factors (stroke-related variables, limitations in Activities of Daily Living [ADL]/Instrumental ADL), personal factors (sociodemographic factors, coping strategies) and environmental factors (satisfaction with social relationships and living environment).

RESULTS

Among the 352 participants, 63% were men, and mean age was 68.7(SD 14.5) years. In the last multivariate model, variables associated with higher levels of social participation were the use of the positive thinking coping strategy (B (SD)=1.17(0.52), p = 0.03), higher perceived satisfaction with the living environment (B (SD)=0.17(0.07), p = 0.03) and fewer perceived activity limitations (B (SD)=0.55 (0.06), p < 0.001). Conversely, the seeking social support coping style (B (SD)= -1.98 (0.60), p = 0.001), and a higher number of stroke-related sequelae (B (SD)= -1.93(0.53), p = 0.001) were associated with lower social participation.

CONCLUSIONS

The identification of potentially modifiable personal and environmental factors that influence social participation provides elements to strengthen existing rehabilitation programs and opens the way for possible psychosocial interventions.

Vascular Cognitive Impairment After Mild Stroke: Connectomic Insights, Neuroimaging, and Knowledge Translation

Contemporary stroke assessment protocols have a limited ability to detect vascular cognitive impairment (VCI), especially among those with subtle deficits. This lesser-involved categorization, termed mild stroke (MiS), can manifest compromised processing speed that negatively impacts cognition. From a neurorehabilitation perspective, research spanning neuroimaging, neuroinformatics, and cognitive neuroscience supports that processing speed is a valuable proxy for complex neurocognitive operations, insofar as inefficient neural network computation significantly affects daily task performance. This impact is particularly evident when high cognitive loads compromise network efficiency by challenging task speed, complexity, and duration. Screening for VCI using processing speed metrics can be more sensitive and specific. Further, they can inform rehabilitation approaches that enhance patient recovery, clarify the construct of MiS, support clinician-researcher symbiosis, and further clarify the occupational therapy role in targeting functional cognition. To this end, we review relationships between insult-derived connectome alterations and VCI, and discuss novel clinical approaches for identifying disruptions of neural networks and white matter connectivity. Furthermore, we will frame knowledge translation efforts to leverage insights from cutting-edge structural and functional connectomics research. Lastly, we highlight how occupational therapists can provide expertise as knowledge brokers acting within their established scope of practice to drive substantive clinical innovation.

Clinical and Imaging Features Associated with the Utilization of Comfort Measures Only in Acute Ischemic Stroke

Objectives: Up to 10% of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients can die in the first 30 days. Older age and a higher National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score are associated with transition to comfort measures only (CMO) in AIS. There are insufficient data on specific stroke etiology, infarct location, or vascular territory for the association of AIS with the use of CMO. We therefore evaluated the clinical and imaging factors associated with utilization of CMO and their outcomes. Methods: AIS patients seen in an academic comprehensive stroke center in the United States between July 1, 2015, and June 30, 2016, were subgrouped based on the use of CMO orders (CMO vs. non-CMO) during hospitalization. Clinical, laboratory, and imaging data were analyzed. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed, adjusting for pertinent covariates. Results: The study consisted of 296 patients, 27 (9%) patients were transitioned to CMO. Compared with non-CMO patients, those with CMO were older (mean ± standard deviation: 66 ± 15 vs. 75 ± 11 years, p = 0.002). Hemorrhagic transformation of AIS was more likely in CMO (17% vs. 41%, p = 0.0030) compared with non-CMO patients. On multivariate analysis, severe stroke measured by the NIHSS score (odds ratio [OR] = 1.2; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.1-1.4), infarction of the insular cortex (OR = 12.9; 95% CI = 1.4-118.4), and presence of cerebral edema with herniation (OR = 9.4; 95% CI = 2.5-35.5) were associated with transition to CMO. Conclusions: The presence of severe stroke, infarction of the insular cortex, and cerebral edema with herniation were associated with utilization of CMO in AIS. Impairment of multiple neurological functions served by the insular cortex could play a role in transition to CMO.

Perfusion profile evaluated by severity-weighted multiple Tmax strata predicts early neurological deterioration in minor stroke with large vessel occlusion

Minor stroke due to large vessel occlusion (LVO) is associated with poor outcomes. Hypoperfused tissue fate may be more accurately predicted by severity-weighted multiple perfusion strata than by a single perfusion threshold. We investigated whether poor perfusion profile evaluated by multiple Tmax strata is associated with early neurological deterioration (END) in patients with minor stroke with LVO. Ninety-four patients with a baseline National Institute of Health Stroke Scale score ≤5 and anterior circulation LVO admitted within 24 hours of onset were included. Tmax strata proportions (Tmax 2-4 s, 4-6 s, 6-8 s, 8-10 s, and >10 s) against the entire hypoperfusion volume (Tmax >2 s) were measured. The perfusion profile was defined as the shift of the distribution of the Tmax strata proportions towards worse hypoperfusion severity compared with that of the entire cohort using the Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney generalised odds ratio (OR); its performance to predict END was tested. The area under the curve of perfusion profile was 0.785 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.691-0.878, p < 0.001). Poor perfusion profile (generalised OR >1.052) was independently associated with END (adjusted OR 13.42 [95% CI: 4.38-41.15], p < 0.001). Thus, perfusion profile with severity-weighted multiple Tmax strata may predict END in minor stroke and LVO.

Mechanical Thrombectomy for Acute Stroke Due to Large-Vessel Occlusion Presenting With Mild Symptoms

Purpose: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of mechanical thrombectomy (MT) for acute stroke due to large vessel occlusion (LVO), presenting with mild symptoms.

Methods: A prospective cohort study of patients with mild ischemic stroke and LVO was conducted. Patients were divided into two groups: MT group or best medical management (MM) group. Propensity score matching (PSM) was conducted to reduce the confounding bias between the groups. The primary outcome was functional independence at 90 days. The safety outcome was symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify the independent factors associated with outcomes.

Results: Among the 105 included patients, 43 were in the MT group and 62 in the MM group. Forty-three pairs of patients were generated after PSM. There were no significant differences in sICH rates between two groups (p = 1.000). The MT group had a higher proportion of independent outcomes (83.7% MT vs. 67.4% MM; OR 2.483; 95% CI 0.886–6.959; p = 0.079) and excellent outcomes (76.7% MT vs. 51.2% MM; OR 3.150; 95% CI 1.247–7.954; p = 0.013) compared to the MM group, especially in patients with stroke of the anterior circulation (p < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that small infarct core volume (p = 0.015) and MT treatment (p = 0.013) were independently associated with excellent outcomes.

Conclusions: Our results suggest that MT in stroke patients, presenting with mild symptoms, due to acute LVO in the anterior circulation may be associated with satisfactory clinical outcomes.

Clinical Trial Registration:ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier: NCT04526756.

The length of susceptibility vessel sign predicts early neurological deterioration in minor acute ischemic stroke with large vessel occlusion

Background

Patients with acute large vessel occlusion (LVO) presenting with minor stroke are at risk of early neurological deterioration (END). The present study aimed to evaluate the frequency and potential predictors of END in patients with medical management and LVO presenting with minor stroke. The relationship between SVS length and END was also investigated.

Methods

This was a prospective multicenter study. Consecutive patients were collected with anterior circulation. LVO presented with minor stroke [National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) ≤ 4] within 24 h following onset. END was defined as a deterioration of NIHSS ≥4 within 24 h, without parenchymal hemorrhage. The length of the susceptibility vessel sign (SVS) was measured using the T2* gradient echo imaging.

Results

A total of 134 consecutive patients with anterior circulation LVO presenting with minor stroke were included. A total of 27 (20.15%) patients experienced END following admission. Patients with END exhibited longer SVS and higher baseline glucose levels compared with subjects lacking END (P < 0.05). ROC curve analysis indicated that the optimal cutoff point SVS length for END was SVS ≥ 9.45 mm. Multivariable analysis indicated that longer SVS [adjusted odds ratio (aOR), 2.03; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.45–2.84; P < 0.001] and higher baseline glucose (aOR,1.02; 95% CI, 1.01–1.03; P = 0.009) levels were associated with increased risk of END. When SVS ≥ 9.45 mm was used in the multivariate logistic regression, SVS ≥ 9.45 mm (aOR, 5.41; 95%CI, 1.00–29.27; P = 0.001) and higher baseline glucose [aOR1.01; 95%CI, 1.00–1.03; P = 0.021] were associated with increased risk of END.

Conclusions

END was frequent in the minor stroke patients with large vessel occlusion, whereas longer SVS and higher baseline glucose were associated with increased risk of END. SVS ≥ 9.45 mm was a powerful independent predictor of END.

A review of endovascular treatment for medium vessel occlusion stroke

Medium-vessel occlusions (MeVOs), that is, occlusions of the M2/3 middle cerebral artery, A2/3 anterior cerebral artery, and P2/3 posterior cerebral artery segments, account for 25%-40% of all acute ischemic stroke cases. Clinical outcomes of MeVO stroke with intravenous thrombolysis, which is the current standard of care, are moderate at best. With improving imaging technologies and a growing literature, MeVOs are increasingly recognized as a target for endovascular treatment (EVT). For the time being, there is limited but promising evidence for the safety and efficacy of MeVO EVT, and many neurointerventionists are already routinely offering EVT for MeVO stroke, despite the lack of clear guideline recommendations. In this article, we review the evidence on endovascular treatment for MeVO stroke and summarize the available literature on current imaging strategies, commonly used EVT selection criteria, EVT techniques, and outcome assessment for MeVO stroke.

Perfusion and Diffusion Variables Predict Early Neurological Deterioration in Minor Stroke and Large Vessel Occlusion

Background and Purpose

Patients with acute large vessel occlusion (LVO) presenting with mild stroke symptoms are at risk of early neurological deterioration (END). This study aimed to identify the optimal imaging variables for predicting END in this population.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 94 patients from the prospectively maintained institutional stroke registry admitted between January 2011 and May 2019, presenting within 24 hours after onset, with a baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score ≤5 and anterior circulation LVO. Patients who underwent endovascular therapy before END were excluded. Volumes of Tmax delay (at >2, >4, >6, >8, and >10 seconds), mismatch (Tmax >4 seconds – diffusion-weighted imaging [DWI] and Tmax >6 seconds – DWI), and mild hypoperfusion lesions (Tmax 2–6 and 4–6 seconds) were measured. The association of each variable with END was examined using receiver operating characteristic curves. The variables with best predictive performance were dichotomized at the cutoff point maximizing Youden’s index and subsequently analyzed using multivariable logistic regression.

Results

END occurred in 39.4% of the participants. The optimal variables were identified as Tmax >6 seconds, Tmax >6 seconds – DWI, and Tmax 4–6 seconds with cut-off points of 53.73, 32.77, and 55.20 mL, respectively. These variables were independently associated with END (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 12.78 [95% confidence interval (CI), 3.36 to 48.65]; aOR, 5.73 [95% CI, 2.04 to 16.08]; and aOR, 9.13 [95% CI, 2.76 to 30.17], respectively).

Conclusions

Tmax >6 seconds, Tmax >6 seconds – DWI, and Tmax 4–6 seconds could identify patients at high risk of END following minor stroke due to LVO.

To Treat or Not to Treat: Importance of Functional Dependence in Deciding Intravenous Thrombolysis of "Mild Stroke" Patients

Intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) in patients with a low National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score of 0–5 remains controversial. IVT should be used in patients with mild but nevertheless disabling symptoms. We hypothesize that response to IVT of patients with “mild stroke” may depend on their level of functional dependence (FD) at hospital admission. The aims of our study were to investigate the effect of IVT and to explore the role of FD in influencing the response to IVT. This study was a retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected database, including 389 patients stratified into patients receiving IVT (IVT⁺) and not receiving IVT (IVT ⁻) just because of mild symptoms. Barthel index (BI) at admission was used to assess FD, dividing subjects with BI score < 80 (FD⁺) and with BI score ≥ 80 (FD⁻). The efficacy endpoints were the rate of positive disability outcome (DO⁺) (3-month mRS score of 0 or 1), and the rate of positive functional outcome (FO⁺) (mRS score of zero or one, plus BI score of 95 or 100 at 3 months). At the multivariate analysis, IVT treatment was an independent predictor of DO⁺ (OR 3.12, 95% CI 1.34−7.27, p = 0.008) and FO⁺ (OR: 4.70, 95% CI 2.38−9.26, p = 0.001). However, FD⁺ IVT⁺ patients had a significantly higher prevalence of DO⁺ and FO⁺ than those FD⁺ IVT^–. Differently, IVT treatment did not influence DO⁺ and FO⁺ in FD^– patients. In FD⁺ patients, IVT treatment represented the strongest independent predictor of DO⁺ (OR 6.01, 95% CI 2.59–13.92, p = 0.001) and FO⁺ (OR 4.73, 95% CI 2.29–9.76, p = 0.001). In conclusion, alteplase seems to improve functional outcome in patients with “mild stroke”. However, in our experience, this beneficial effect is strongly influenced by FD at admission.

Acute symptomatic extracranial internal carotid occlusion - natural course and clinical impact

Background: To assess the vascular and clinical course of acute symptomatic extracranial internal carotid artery (ICA) occlusion. Patients and methods: Patients with an acute ischemic event in the anterior circulation and corresponding extracranial ICA occlusion at CT angiography and/or color-coded duplex sonography underwent recurrent duplex follow-up for detection of spontaneous recanalization. Stroke recurrence and functional outcome 4.5 months after the ischemic index event assessed by modified Rankin scale served as secondary outcome parameters. Results: 133 patients (91 men, mean age 62.3 years, SD 10.8) demonstrated symptomatic occlusion of the extracranial ICA with open intracranial ICA and open middle cerebral artery and were followed-up for spontaneous recanalization. Twenty-eight recanalized spontaneously, 25 to high-grade focal stenosis within 12 days, revealing an early cumulative recanalization rate of 23 %. Detection of recanalization was independently associated with de novo dual anti-platelet therapy (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 3.24; 95 % confidence interval [CI], 1.34 to 7.80). Ischemic recurrence occurred in 16 patients, of which 10 deemed to be embolic and 5 hemodynamic. Spontaneous ICA recanalization and an exhausted cerebrovascular reserve in the hemisphere distal to the occluded ICA were both independently associated with the occurrence of a recurrent ischemic event at Cox regression. An increasing NIHSS score at admission, a decreasing middle cerebral artery flow velocity and an ischemic recurrence independently predicted poor outcome (modified Rankin scale 3 to 6) in multivariate analysis. Conclusions: Acute symptomatic extracranial ICA occlusion is an unstable condition with frequent spontaneous recanalization to severe stenosis and early embolic stroke recurrence, demanding appropriate prevention especially in those patients with only mild deficit.

To Treat or Not to Treat?

Background and Purpose- The 2015 updated US Food and Drug Administration alteplase package insert altered several contraindications. We thus explored clinical factors influencing alteplase treatment decisions for patients with minor stroke. Methods- An expert panel selected 7 factors to build a series of survey vignettes: National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), NIHSS area of primary deficit, baseline functional status, previous ischemic stroke, previous intracerebral hemorrhage, recent anticoagulation, and temporal pattern of symptoms in first hour of care. We used a fractional factorial design (150 vignettes) to provide unconfounded estimates of the effect of all 7 main factors, plus first-order interactions for NIHSS. Surveys were emailed to national organizations of neurologists, emergency physicians, and colleagues. Physicians were randomized to 1 of 10 sets of 15 vignettes, presented randomly. Physicians reported the subjective likelihood of giving alteplase on a 0 to 5 scale; scale categories were anchored to 6 probabilities from 0% to 100%. A conjoint statistical analysis was applied. Results- Responses from 194 US physicians yielded 156 with complete vignette data: 74% male, mean age 46, 80% neurologists. Treatment mean probabilities for individual vignettes ranged from 6% to 95%. Treatment probability increased from 24% for NIHSS score =1 to 41% for NIHSS score =5. The conjoint model accounted for 25% of total observed response variance. In contrast, a model accounting for all possible interactions accounted for 30% variance. Four of the 7 factors accounted jointly for 58% of total relative importance within the conjoint model: previous intracerebral hemorrhage (18%), recent anticoagulation (17%), NIHSS (13%), and previous ischemic stroke (10%). Conclusions- Four main variables jointly account for only a small fraction (<15%) of the total variance related to deciding to treat with intravenous alteplase, reflecting high variability and complexity. Future studies should consider other variables, including physician characteristics.

Classification of Mild Stroke: A Mapping Review

Persons with mild stroke experience motor and cognitive impairments that negatively affect their health and quality of life. To address these deficits, it is essential for clinicians and researchers to precisely identify mild stroke survivors. Despite the fact that half of all strokes are categorized as mild, no standards exist on what constitutes a "mild" stroke. The purpose of this study is to summarize the current classification of mild stroke using a mapping review approach. Strategies to categorize "mild stroke" severity were explored in 188 papers indexed in the PubMed database. The results indicate that there was substantial variability in the procedures and scoring criteria used to determine mild stroke. To identify persons with mild stroke, researchers have largely applied assessment instruments developed to inform acute stroke care (eg, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale, Modified Rankin Scale, Barthel Index). Unfortunately, these approaches demonstrate floor effects and fail to detect the long-term disabling impairments that often limit the outcomes of mild stroke survivors. Additional research is warranted to suggest an evidence-based mild stroke categorization strategy that enhances diagnosis, treatment, and referral decisions to the benefit of mild stroke survivors.

Alteplase for the treatment of acute ischemic stroke in patients with low National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale and not clearly disabling deficits (Potential of rtPA for Ischemic Strokes with Mild Symptoms PRISMS): Rationale and design

Rationale Over half of acute ischemic stroke patients have a low National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale of 0-5 and up to two-thirds may not appear clearly disabled at presentation. The efficacy of intravenous alteplase for the latter group is not known. Aim Potential of rtPA for Ischemic Strokes with Mild Symptoms (PRISMS) was designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of intravenous alteplase for the treatment of acute ischemic stroke with National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale 0-5 and without clearly disabling deficits. Sample size estimates A maximum of 948 subjects were required to test the superiority hypothesis with 80% power, according to a one-sided 0.025 level of significance. Methods and design PRISMS was a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 3b clinical trial. Patients were randomized to the active arm (intravenous alteplase standard dose of 0.9 mg/kg, up to a maximum of 90 mg, plus oral aspirin placebo) or the control arm (intravenous alteplase placebo plus active oral aspirin dose of 325 mg). Study outcome The primary efficacy endpoint was favorable functional outcome, defined as a modified Rankin Scale score 0 or 1 assessed at 90-day postrandomization.

Evaluation of Ataxia in Mild Ischemic Stroke Patients Using the Scale for the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia (SARA)

Objective

To demonstrate the utility of Scale for the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia (SARA) for evaluation of posterior circulation-related features in patients with mild stroke.

Methods

Forty-five subjects, diagnosed with acute infarction in the cerebellum, basis pontis, thalamus, corona radiata, posterior limb of internal capsule, and their National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores ≤5 were enrolled. SARA scores were graded by the cut-off value of severity in dependency of activities of daily living (ADL). SARA, Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Timed Up-and-Go (TUG), and Trunk Control Test (TCT) were correlated in regression analysis with the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) at discharge. Correlation between SARA and other tools was analyzed. Patients were divided based on mRS at admission (group A, mRS 0–2; group B, mRS 3–5). Scores between the two groups were compared.

Results

Among the subjects, 48.9% (22/45) scored above 5.5 on SARA, and even 11.1% (5/45) scored higher than 14.25, which is the cut-off value of ‘severe dependency’ in ADL. SARA showed significant value for prediction of mRS at discharge. SARA was correlated with BBS (r=-0.946, p<0.001), TUG (r=-0.584, p<0.001), and TCT (r=-0.799, p<0.001). The SARA, BBS, TUG, and TCT scores between were lower in group B than in group A patients. SARA as well as BBS, TUG, and TCT reflect the functional severity of all patients.

Conclusion

SARA is a complementary tool for evaluation of the severity of ataxia in mild stroke patients with features of posterior circulation.

Efficacy and safety of intravenous recombinant tissue plasminogen activator in mild ischaemic stroke: a meta-analysis

The benefits and safety of intravenous recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (IV-tPA) for patients with mild ischaemic stroke (MIS) are still unclear. The objective of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of IV-tPA as treatment for patients with MIS. We performed a systematic literature search across MEDLINE, Embase, Central, Global Health and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), from inception to 10 November 2016, to identify all related studies. Where possible, data were pooled for meta-analysis with odds ratio (OR) and corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) using the fixed-effects model. MIS was defined as having National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score of ≤6. We included seven studies with a total of 1591 patients based on the prespecified inclusion and exclusion criteria. The meta-analysis indicated a high odds of excellent functional outcome based on the modified Rankin Scale or Oxfordshire Handicap Score 0–1 (OR=1.43; 95% CI 1.14 to 1.79; P=0.002, I²=35%) in patients treated with IV-tPA compared with those not treated with IV-tPA (74.8% vs 67.6%). There was a high risk of symptomatic intracranial haemorrhage (sICH) with IV-tPA treatment (OR=10.13; 95% CI 1.93 to 53.02; P=0.006, I²=0%) (1.9% vs 0.0%) but not mortality (OR=0.78; 95% CI 0.43 to 1.43; P=0.43, I²=0%) (2.4% vs 2.9%). Treatment with IV-tPA was associated with better functional outcome but not mortality among patients with MIS, although there was an increased risk of sICH. Randomised trials are warranted to confirm these findings.

Combining Standard Conventional Measures and Ecological Momentary Assessment of Depression, Anxiety and Coping Using Smartphone Application in Minor Stroke Population: A Longitudinal Study Protocol

Context: Stroke has several consequences on survivors’ daily life even for those who experience short-lasting neurological symptoms with no functional disability. Depression and anxiety are common psychological disorders occurring after a stroke. They affect long-term outcomes and quality of life but they are difficult to diagnose because of the neurobiological consequences of brain lesions. Current research priority is given to the improvement of the detection and prevention of those post-stroke psychological disorders. Although previous studies have brought promising perspectives, their designs based on retrospective tools involve some limits regarding their ecological validity. Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA) is an alternative to conventional instruments that could be a key in research for understanding processes that underlined post-stroke depression and anxiety onset. We aim to evaluate the feasibility and validity of anxiety, depression and coping EMA for minor stroke patients.

Methods: Patients hospitalized in an Intensive Neuro-vascular Care Unit between April 2016 and January 2017 for a minor stroke is involved in a study based on an EMA methodology. We use a smartphone application in order to assess anxiety and depression symptoms and coping strategies four times a day during 1 week at three different times after stroke (hospital discharge, 2 and 4 months). Participants’ self-reports and clinician-rates of anxiety, depression and coping are collected simultaneously using conventional and standard instruments. Feasibility of the EMA method will be assessed considering the participation and compliance rate. Validity will be the assessed by comparing EMA and conventional self-report and clinician-rated measures.

Discussion: We expect this study to contribute to the development of EMA using smartphone in minor stroke population. EMA method offers promising research perspective in the assessment and understanding of post-stroke psychological disorders. The development of EMA in stroke population could lead to clinical implications such as remotely psychological follow-ups during early supported discharge.

Trial registration: European Clinical Trials Database Number 2014-A01937-40

Patients with Low National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale Scores Have Longer Door-to-Needle Times: Analysis of a Telestroke Network

BACKGROUND

The benefits of intravenous tissue-type plasminogen activator (IV-tPA) in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) are time dependent. Because emergency rooms quickly initiate a stroke alert with more severe symptoms, we hypothesized that patients with lower National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores, indicating a less severe stroke, would have longer door-to-needle (DTN) times compared to patients with higher NIHSS scores.

METHODS

Data obtained from the 19-hospital Providence Stroke Registry were used to identify AIS patients who received IV-tPA within 4.5 hours of last-known-well. NIHSS scores were obtained prior to tPA administration at the time of emergency department presentation and categorized as low-NIHSS (score = 0-5) or high-NIHSS (score = 6-42) strokes. Median DTN times were collected for both groups as the primary outcome variable. Linear mixed-effects regression models were used to assess the effect of NIHSS scores on DTN and its 2 components: door-to-CT (DCT) and CT-to-needle (CTN) times.

RESULTS

We identified 692 AIS patients who received IV-tPA within 4.5 hours of last-known-well, with 198 patients presenting with low-NIHSS strokes and 494 patients with high-NIHSS strokes. In multivariable analysis, median DTN time was estimated to be 18% higher for low-NIHSS strokes than high-NIHSS strokes after adjusting for covariates (P < .001). Median DCT times were also higher for low-NIHSS (19 minutes) compared to high-NIHSS (11 minutes) strokes after adjusting for covariates (P < .001), whereas CTN times were unchanged (P = .055).

CONCLUSION

In AIS patients receiving IV-tPA in a telestroke network, lower NIHSS scores were associated with longer DTN and DCT times.

Early Magnetic Resonance Imaging Predicts Early Neurological Deterioration in Acute Middle Cerebral Artery Minor Stroke

BACKGROUND

Early neurological deterioration (END) is an important factor associated with worse clinical outcome in minor strokes. Early magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings can provide better sensitivity to delineate stroke pathophysiology and have diagnostic value associated with causative mechanisms. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between early MRI finding and the presence of END in minor stroke patients with lesions in the middle cerebral artery (MCA) territory.

METHODS

Consecutive MCA minor stroke patients who were admitted to our center within 24 hours of symptom onset were included in this study. All patients underwent MRI within 24 hours of admission. We analyzed baseline characteristics, infarction patterns, and treatment algorithms. The correlation between early MRI findings and END, defined as National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score increasing more than 2 points during 72 hours after admission, was also determined.

RESULTS

Across 211 patients meeting entry criteria between January 2010 and December 2013, internal border-zone (IBZ) infarcts on early MRI scan were observed in 23 of 65 patients with END (35.4%) and in 18 of 146 patients without END (12.3%, P < .001). Patients with IBZ infarcts were found to have more hyperlipidemia, less perforating artery infarcts, more pial artery infarcts, more cortical border-zone infarcts and more ipsilateral large arterial stenosis. Logistic regression analysis revealed that IBZ infarct was independently associated with END after adjustment for other factors (odds ratio, 2.50; 95% confidence interval, 1.09-5.74; P = .031).

CONCLUSIONS

Early MRI patterns of IBZ infarction are associated with END in minor stroke patients with acute infarcts of the MCA territory.