Low Remnant Cholesterol and In-Hospital Bleeding Risk After Ischemic Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack.

BACKGROUND: Bleeding risk brought by intensive lipid-lowering therapy and low low-density lipoprotein cholesterol is concerning, while evidence regarding the relationship between remnant cholesterol and bleeding is frightening. This study aimed to investigate the association between remnant cholesterol at admission and an in-hospital bleeding event after acute ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA). METHODS AND RESULTS: A total of 3222 eligible patients admitted to Shanghai Huashan Hospital between 2015 and 2021 with complete lipid data were analyzed. Patients were classified into low (<20.0 mg/dL), moderate (20.0-29.9 mg/dL), and high (≥30 mg/dL) groups by remnant cholesterol. The mean age of patients was 63.0± 13.1 years, including 2301 (71.4%) men and 651 (20.2%) with TIA. The median (interquartile range) of remnant cholesterol was 18.6 (13.5-25.9) mg/dL. After adjustment for confounding variables, patients with low remnant cholesterol had a higher risk of bleeding events (odds ratio, 2.56 [95% CI, 1.12-6.67]) than those with moderate remnant cholesterol. The high remnant cholesterol group was not significantly associated with bleeding risk. Combined assessment of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and remnant cholesterol further identified patients with the highest risk of bleeding events. CONCLUSIONS: Low remnant cholesterol levels were associated with bleeding events during the acute stage of ischemic stroke and TIA. The assessment of remnant cholesterol could inform the bleeding risk during hospitalization both for patients and physicians in clinical practice.

Determinants of adherence to post-stroke/transient ischemic attack secondary prevention medications: A cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Adherence to post-stroke secondary prevention medications mitigates recurrence risk. This study aimed to measure adherence to secondary prevention medications during 3 years post-ischemic stroke/transient ischemic attack, using prescription and dispensing data, and identify factors associated with suboptimal adherence. METHODS: This multicenter, prospective, cohort study involved patients from the STROKE 69 cohort, which included all consecutive patients with suspected acute stroke admitted between November 2015 and December 2016 to any emergency department or stroke center in the Rhône area in France. Prescription data for antihypertensive agents, antidiabetic agents, lipid-lowering drugs, and antithrombotics were collected. Dispensing data were provided by the French regional reimbursement database. Adherence was calculated using the continuous medication acquisition index. Associations between suboptimal adherence and potential influencing factors across the World Health Organization's five dimensions were explored through univariate and multivariate analyses. RESULTS: From 1512 eligible patients, 365 were included. Optimal adherence to overall treatment (≥90%) was observed in 61%, 62%, and 65% of patients in the first, second, and third years, respectively. Education level (high school diploma or higher: OR = 3.24, 95% CI [1.49; 7.36]) and depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale-Depression scores 8-10: OR = 1.90, 95% CI [1.05; 3.44]) were significantly associated with suboptimal adherence. CONCLUSIONS: Overall adherence to secondary prevention medications was fairly good. Having an initial diagnosis of transient ischemic attack, a high level of education, or depression was associated with increased odds of suboptimal adherence, while having a history of heart rhythm disorder was associated with lower odds.

Emergency medicine updates: Transient ischemic attack.

INTRODUCTION: Transient ischemic attack (TIA) is a condition commonly evaluated for in the emergency department (ED). Therefore, it is important for emergency clinicians to be aware of the current evidence regarding the diagnosis and management of this disease. OBJECTIVE: This paper evaluates key evidence-based updates concerning TIA for the emergency clinician. DISCUSSION: TIA is a harbinger of ischemic stroke and can result from a variety of pathologic causes. While prior definitions incorporated symptoms resolving within 24 h, modern definitions recommend a tissue-based definition utilizing advanced imaging to evaluate for neurologic injury and the etiology. In the ED, emergent evaluation includes assessing for current signs and symptoms of neurologic dysfunction, appropriate imaging to investigate for minor stroke or stroke risk, and arranging appropriate disposition and follow up to mitigate risk of subsequent ischemic stroke. Imaging should include evaluation of great vessels and intracranial arteries, as well as advanced cerebral imaging to evaluate for minor or subclinical stroke. Non-contrast computed tomography (CT) has limited utility for this situation; it can rule out hemorrhage or a large mass causing symptoms but should not be relied on for any definitive diagnosis. Noninvasive imaging of the cervical vessels can also be used (CT angiography or Doppler ultrasound). Treatment includes antithrombotic medications if there are no contraindications. Dual antiplatelet therapy may reduce the risk of recurrent ischemic events in higher risk patients, while anticoagulation is recommended in patients with a cardioembolic source. A variety of scoring systems or tools are available that seek to predict stroke risk after a TIA. The Canadian TIA risk score appears to have the best diagnostic accuracy. However, these scores should not be used in isolation. Disposition may include admission, management in an ED-based observation unit with rapid diagnostic protocol, or expedited follow-up in a specialty clinic. CONCLUSIONS: An understanding of literature updates concerning TIA can improve the ED care of patients with TIA.

ACR Appropriateness Criteria® Cerebrovascular Diseases-Stroke and Stroke-Related Conditions.

Cerebrovascular disease encompasses a vast array of conditions. The imaging recommendations for stroke-related conditions involving noninflammatory steno-occlusive arterial and venous cerebrovascular disease including carotid stenosis, carotid dissection, intracranial large vessel occlusion, and cerebral venous sinus thrombosis are encompassed by this document. Additional imaging recommendations regarding complications of these conditions including intraparenchymal hemorrhage and completed ischemic strokes are also discussed. The American College of Radiology Appropriateness Criteria are evidence-based guidelines for specific clinical conditions that are reviewed annually by a multidisciplinary expert panel. The guideline development and revision process support the systematic analysis of the medical literature from peer reviewed journals. Established methodology principles such as Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation or GRADE are adapted to evaluate the evidence. The RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method User Manual provides the methodology to determine the appropriateness of imaging and treatment procedures for specific clinical scenarios. In those instances where peer reviewed literature is lacking or equivocal, experts may be the primary evidentiary source available to formulate a recommendation.

Cerebral Vasomotor Reactivity in the acute phase and after 6 months in non-disabling stroke/TIA: a prospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Cerebral Vasomotor Reactivity (VMR) is a property of cerebral hemodynamics that protects from cerebrovascular disease. We aimed to explore the VMR longitudinal changes in patients with acute non-disabling stroke/Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) to understand its implication in stroke ethiopatogenesis. METHODS: VMR by Transcranial Doppler Breath Holding test was performed at 48-72 h from stroke onset (T1) and after 6 months (T2) on MCA of the non-affected hemisphere and PCA of the affected hemisphere. RESULTS: We consecutively enrolled 124 patients with a median age of 66.0 (IQR 54.75-74.25) years with a median NIHSS 2 (IQR 1-3). Both MCA (1.38 %/s SD 0.58) and PCA (1.35 %/s SD 0.75) BHI at T1 did not differ among different stroke subtypes (p=0.067 and p=0.350; N=124). MCA and PCA BHI decreased from T1 to T2 (respectively 1.39 %/s SD 0.56 vs 1.18%/s SD 0.44 and 1.30 %/s SD 0.69 vs 1.20 %/s SD 0.51; N=109) regardless of ethiopatogenesis (respectively p<0.0001 and p=0.111). CONCLUSION: the VMR is higher in acute phase than at 6 months in patients with non-disabling stroke/TIA, regardless of etiopathogenesis. The higher VMR in acute phase could be sustained by an increased Cerebral Blood Flow due to collateral circulation activation supporting the ischemic zone.

Qualifying Event and Recurrence of Ischemic Stroke in Symptomatic Artery Occlusion: A Post Hoc Analysis of CMOSS.

BACKGROUND: The authors aimed to elucidate the relationship between latest ischemic event and the incidence of subsequent ischemic stroke in patients with symptomatic artery occlusion. METHODS AND RESULTS: We analyzed the association between qualifying event-the latest ischemic event (transient ischemic attack [TIA] or stroke)-and the incidence of ipsilateral ischemic stroke in patients with symptomatic artery occlusion treated with medical therapy alone in CMOSS (Carotid or Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion Surgery Study). The incidence of CMOSS primary outcomes, including any stroke or death within 30 days after randomization or ipsilateral ischemic stroke between 30 days and 2 years, between the bypass surgical and medical groups, stratified by qualifying events, was also compared. Of the 165 patients treated with medical therapy alone, 75 had a TIA and 90 had a stroke as their qualifying event. The incidence of ipsilateral ischemic stroke did not significantly differ between patients with a TIA and those with a stroke as their qualifying event (13.3% versus 6.7%, P=0.17). In multivariate analysis, the qualifying event was not associated with the incidence of ipsilateral ischemic stroke. There were no significant differences in the CMOSS primary outcomes between the surgical and medical groups, regardless of the qualifying event being TIA (10.1% versus 12.2%, P=0.86) or stroke (6.7% versus 8.9%, P=0.55). CONCLUSIONS: Among patients with symptomatic artery occlusion and hemodynamic insufficiency, the risk of subsequent ipsilateral ischemic stroke does not appear to be lower in patients presenting with a TIA compared with those with a stroke. REGISTRATION: URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT01758614.

Ischemic Stroke After Bivalent COVID-19 Vaccination: Self-Controlled Case Series Study.

BACKGROUND: The potential association between bivalent COVID-19 vaccination and ischemic stroke remains uncertain, despite several studies conducted thus far. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the risk of ischemic stroke following bivalent COVID-19 vaccination during the 2022-2023 season. METHODS: A self-controlled case series study was conducted among members aged 12 years and older who experienced ischemic stroke between September 1, 2022, and March 31, 2023, in a large health care system. Ischemic strokes were identified using International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision codes in emergency departments and inpatient settings. Exposures were Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna bivalent COVID-19 vaccination. Risk intervals were prespecified as 1-21 days and 1-42 days after bivalent vaccination; all non-risk-interval person-time served as the control interval. The incidence of ischemic stroke was compared in the risk interval and control interval using conditional Poisson regression. We conducted overall and subgroup analyses by age, history of SARS-CoV-2 infection, and coadministration of influenza vaccine. When an elevated risk was detected, we performed a chart review of ischemic strokes and analyzed the risk of chart-confirmed ischemic stroke. RESULTS: With 4933 ischemic stroke events, we found no increased risk within the 21-day risk interval for the 2 vaccines and by subgroups. However, risk of ischemic stroke was elevated within the 42-day risk interval among individuals aged younger than 65 years with coadministration of Pfizer-BioNTech bivalent and influenza vaccines on the same day; the relative incidence (RI) was 2.13 (95% CI 1.01-4.46). Among those who also had a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection, the RI was 3.94 (95% CI 1.10-14.16). After chart review, the RIs were 2.34 (95% CI 0.97-5.65) and 4.27 (95% CI 0.97-18.85), respectively. Among individuals aged younger than 65 years who received Moderna bivalent vaccine and had a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection, the RI was 2.62 (95% CI 1.13-6.03) before chart review and 2.24 (95% CI 0.78-6.47) after chart review. Stratified analyses by sex did not show a significantly increased risk of ischemic stroke after bivalent vaccination. CONCLUSIONS: While the point estimate for the risk of chart-confirmed ischemic stroke was elevated in a risk interval of 1-42 days among individuals younger than 65 years with coadministration of Pfizer-BioNTech bivalent and influenza vaccines on the same day and among individuals younger than 65 years who received Moderna bivalent vaccine and had a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection, the risk was not statistically significant. The potential association between bivalent vaccination and ischemic stroke in the 1-42-day analysis warrants further investigation among individuals younger than 65 years with influenza vaccine coadministration and prior SARS-CoV-2 infection. Furthermore, the findings on ischemic stroke risk after bivalent COVID-19 vaccination underscore the need to evaluate monovalent COVID-19 vaccine safety during the 2023-2024 season.

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

BACKGROUND: the ABCD2 score is valuable for predicting early stroke recurrence after a transient ischemic attack (TIA), and Doppler ultrasound can aid in expediting stroke triage. The study aimed to investigate whether combining the ABCD2 score with carotid duplex results can enhance the identification of early acute ischemic stroke after TIA. METHODS: we employed a retrospective cohort design for this study, enrolling patients diagnosed with TIA who were discharged from the emergency department (ED). The modified ABCD2-I (c50) score, which incorporates a Doppler ultrasound assessment of internal carotid artery stenosis > 50%, was used to evaluate the risk of acute ischemic stroke within 72 h. Patients were categorized into three risk groups: low risk (with ABCD2 and ABCD2-I scores = 0-4), moderate risk (ABCD2 score = 4-5 and ABCD2-I score = 5-7), and high risk (ABCD2 score = 6-7 and ABCD2-I score = 8-9). RESULTS: between 1 January 2014, and 31 December 2019, 1124 patients with new neurological deficits were screened, with 151 TIA patients discharged from the ED and included in the analysis. Cox proportional hazards analysis showed that patients in the high-risk group, as per the ABCD2-I (c50) score, were significantly associated with revisiting the ED within 72 h due to acute ischemic stroke (HR: 3.12, 95% CI: 1.31-7.41, p = 0.0102), while the ABCD2 alone did not show significant association (HR: 1.12, 95% CI: 0.57-2.22, p = 0.7427). CONCLUSION: ABCD2-I (c50) scores effectively predict early acute ischemic stroke presentations to the ED within 72 h after TIA.

Secondary Prevention via Case Managers in Stroke Patients: A Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Claims Data from German Statutory Health Insurance Providers.

Strokes remain a leading cause of death and disability worldwide. The STROKE OWL study evaluated a novel case management approach for patients with stroke (modified Rankin Scale 0-4) or transient ischemic attack (TIA) who received support across healthcare settings and secondary prevention training from case managers for one year. The primary aim of this quasi-experimental study was a reduction in stroke recurrence. Here, we report the results of a health economic analysis of the STROKE OWL study, conducted in accordance with CHEERS guidelines. The calculations were based on claims data of cooperating statutory health insurance companies. In addition to a regression analysis for cost comparison, the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio was determined, and a probabilistic sensitivity analysis was carried out. In total, 1167 patients per group were included in the analysis. The intervention group incurred 32.3% higher direct costs (p < 0.001) than the control group. With a difference of EUR 1384.78 (95% CI: [1.2384-1.4143], p < 0.0001) and a 5.32% increase in hazards for the intervention group (HR = 1.0532, 95% CI: [0.7869-1.4096], p = 0.7274) resulting in an ICER of EUR 260.30, we found that the case management intervention dominated in the total stroke population, even for an arbitrarily high willingness to pay. In the TIA subgroup, however, the intervention was cost-effective even for a low willingness to pay. Our results are limited by small samples for both TIA and severe stroke patients and by claims data heterogeneity for some cost components, which had to be excluded from the analysis. Future research should investigate the cost-effectiveness of case management interventions for both severe stroke and TIA populations using appropriate data.

Every Patent Foramen Ovale Should Be Closed.

At present, the patent foramen ovale (PFO) does not receive the deserved medical attention. The PFO poses a serious threat to health and even the life of mankind. The first respective case report in the medical literature dates back to the 19th century. It led to death. The fact that a PFO is present in roughly 25% of people underscores its overall potential to cause harm. Yet at the same time, the sheer number discourages the medical community from screening for it and from treating it. About 5% of the population have particularly dangerous forms of PFOs. Such PFOs portray a high enough risk for clinical events, the likes of death, stroke, myocardial infarction, or ocular, visceral, and peripheral embolism, to justify screening for them. Highly significant health incidents being at stake, it appears obvious that PFO closure should be used for primary prevention. This is supported by the fact that closing a PFO is the simplest intervention in cardiology, with presumably the highest clinical yield. Being mainly a preventive measure, PFO closure represents a mechanical vaccination. When closing PFOs for one of the rarer therapeutic indications (migraine, platypnea orthodeoxia, etc.), patients automatically profit from the collateral benefit of getting, at the same time, mechanically vaccinated for life against paradoxical embolism. Vice versa, closing a PFO for the prevention of paradoxical embolism betters or cures migraine or exercise dyspnea not infrequently, thereby improving quality of life as a collateral benefit.

Enhancing stroke risk prediction in patients with transient ischemic attack: insights from a prospective cohort study implementing fast-track care.

Background and aims: Fast-track care have been proved to reduce the short-term risk of stroke after transient ischemic attack (TIA). We aimed to investigate stroke risk and to characterize short- and long-term stroke predictors in a large cohort of TIA patients undergoing fast-track management. Methods: Prospective study, enrolling consecutive TIA patients admitted to a Northern Italy emergency department from August 2010 to December 2017. All patients underwent fast-track care within 24 h of admission. The primary outcome was defined as the first stroke recurrence at 90 days, 12 and 60 months after TIA. Stroke incidence with 95% confidence interval (CI) at each timepoint was calculated using Poisson regression. Predictors of stroke recurrence were evaluated with Cox regression analysis. The number needed to treat (NNT) of fast-track care in preventing 90-day stroke recurrence in respect to the estimates based on baseline ABCD2 score was also calculated. Results: We enrolled 1,035 patients (54.2% males). Stroke incidence was low throughout the follow-up with rates of 2.2% [95% CI 1.4-3.3%] at 90 days, 2.9% [95% CI 1.9-4.2%] at 12 months and 7.1% [95% CI 5.4-9.0%] at 60 months. Multiple TIA, speech disturbances and presence of ischemic lesion at neuroimaging predicted stroke recurrence at each timepoint. Male sex and increasing age predicted 90-day and 60-month stroke risk, respectively. Hypertension was associated with higher 12-month and 60-month stroke risk. No specific TIA etiology predicted higher stroke risk throughout the follow-up. The NNT for fast-track care in preventing 90-day stroke was 14.5 [95% CI 11.3-20.4] in the overall cohort and 6.8 [95% CI 4.6-13.5] in patients with baseline ABCD2 of 6 to 7. Conclusion: Our findings support the effectiveness of fast-track care in preventing both short- and long-term stroke recurrence after TIA. Particular effort should be made to identify and monitor patients with baseline predictors of higher stroke risk, which may vary according to follow-up duration.

Balloon angiopLasty for intracranial Atherosclerotic minor Stroke/TIA (BLAST): study protocol for a multicenter prospective cohort study.

Rationale/Aim: Intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis (ICAS) is a common cause of stroke in Asia and is significantly associated with stroke recurrence. The Balloon angiopLasty for intracranial Atherosclerotic minor Stroke/TIA (BLAST) study aims to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of early submaximal balloon angioplasty (SBA) combined with standard medical therapy vs. standard medical therapy alone in patients with minor stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) due to ICAS. Methods: The BLAST study is a multicenter prospective cohort study which will enroll patients with minor stroke or TIA due to symptomatic ICAS within 1 week of symptom onset from 20 centers in China. Eligible patients will receive either SBA with standard medical therapy or standard medical therapy alone based on the decision of the patient or legal representative. Participants will be followed up for 1 year. Study outcomes: The primary outcome is a composite of stroke or death within 30 days or ischemic stroke in the culprit artery territory from 30 days to 1 year. Secondary outcomes include stroke or death within 30 days, ischemic stroke in the culprit artery territory from 30 days to 1 year, restenosis rate of the culprit artery at 1 year, and neurological improvement at 90 days (assessed by mRS score). Safety outcomes include intracranial hemorrhage within 30 days and endovascular complications. Sample size estimate: According to previous studies, the incidence of the composite clinical outcomes is 15% in the group receiving medical therapy alone. We assumed the incidence would decrease to 5% in the SBA combined with the medical therapy group. The target sample size is 416 patients (208 per group), with 90% power and 5% type I error, allowing for a 10% loss to follow-up. Implications: The BLAST study will provide evidence regarding whether early SBA can reduce stroke recurrence and mortality in patients with minor stroke/TIA due to ICAS compared with medical therapy alone.Clinical trial registration:Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT06014723.

Investigating the Relationship Between Clinical Characteristics, Mental Health, and Vascular Function in Minor Ischemic Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack Patients.

Background: Over the past decade, there has been extensive research exploring the relationship between vascular health and mental well-being, encompassing aspects such as mood and cognition. However, there is a notable gap in research focusing on the mental and vascular conditions of minor ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) patients, particularly within the Thai population. Objectives: To investigate the clinical characteristics and mental issues related to vascular functions in patients who have experienced a minor ischemic stroke or TIA. This study, approved by the Buriram Hospital Ethics Committee (IRB: BR0033.102.1/8), adhered to the guidelines of the Helsinki Declaration and obtained informed consent from all participants. Methods: A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted at Buriram Hospital, a government regional hospital located in Buriram province, Thailand, involving twenty-three participants diagnosed with minor ischemic stroke or TIA. Measurements included clinical characteristics, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale-part Anxiety (HADS-A), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale-part Depression (HADS-D), mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), flow-mediated dilation (FMD), and brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV). Linear regression analysis was employed to investigate the factors associated with vascular function (FMD and baPWV). Results: The factor related to FMD was HADS-D (ß = -0.5, 95% CI -0.33 to -0.04). Factors associated with baPWV included age (ß = 0.51, 95% CI 5.05 to 39.50) and the duration of minor ischemic stroke or TIA (ß = 0.48, 95% CI 25.41 to 290.99). Conclusions: FMD shows a connection with depressive symptoms in patients with minor ischemic stroke or TIA. Therefore, it is important to detect and provide appropriate treatment for depressive symptoms in these patients, as it may lead to improvements in vascular function and better cerebrovascular outcomes.

Isolated Ischemic Inferior Rectus Paresis Related to Patent Foramen Ovale.

Isolated paresis of the inferior rectus muscle (IRM) represents a rare occurrence. This case report involves a young adult male who, abruptly during a Valsalva maneuver, encountered acute vertical diplopia due to right IRM paresis, resolving spontaneously within a few hours. The patient presented without identifiable risk factors, and magnetic resonance imaging revealed a minor left thalamic ischemic lesion. A cardiac study identified the presence of a patent foramen ovale, potentially associated with a paradoxical embolism, indicating its likely role in this transient ischemic event.

Factors impacting D-dimer levels in patients with acute ischemic cerebrovascular events.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: A better understanding of the factors influencing D-dimer levels in code stroke patients is needed to guide further investigations of concomitant thrombotic conditions. This study aimed to investigate the impact of time from symptom onset and other factors on D-dimer levels in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) or transient ischemic attack (TIA). METHODS: Data on consecutive AIS and TIA patients treated at our tertiary-care stroke center between January 2015 and December 2020 were retrospectively assessed. Patients with available D-dimer levels were evaluated for eligibility. Multivariable non-linear regression analyses were performed. RESULTS: In total, 2467 AIS patients and 708 TIA patients were included. The median D-dimer levels differed between the AIS and TIA groups (746 µg/L [interquartile range 381-1468] versus 442 µg/L [interquartile range 244-800], p<0.001). In AIS patients, an early increase in D-dimer levels was demonstrated within the first 6 h (standardized beta coefficient [ß] 0.728; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.324-1.121). This was followed by an immediate decrease (ß -13.022; 95% CI -20.401 to -5.643) and then by a second, late increase after 35 h (ß 11.750; 95% CI 4.71-18.791). No time-dependent fluctuation in D-dimer levels was observed in TIA patients. CONCLUSION: The time from symptom onset may affect D-dimer levels in patients with AIS but not those with TIA. Further studies confirming these findings and validating time-specific variations are needed to enable D-dimer levels to be used efficiently as an acute stroke and thrombotic risk biomarker.

Hematocrit Predicts Poor Prognosis in Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack.

This study aims to investigate the association between HCT (Hematocrit) levels and adverse outcomes in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) or transient ischemic attack (TIA); 14,832 participants from the China National Stroke Registry-III with AIS or TIA were analyzed. Participants were categorized into quartiles based on baseline HCT levels. The primary outcome was poor functional outcomes (modified Rankin Scale ≥ 3) during three months, with secondary outcomes including all-cause death, stroke recurrence, and combined vascular events. Logistic regression or Cox regression models were used to assess the relationship between HCT and clinical outcomes. Compared to the third quartile, patients in the lowest quartile group showed increased risk of poor functional outcome (adjusted OR: 1.35, 95% CI: 1.15-1.58, p < 0.001), patients in the lowest quartile had a higher risk of all-cause death (adjusted HR: 1.68, 95% CI: 1.06-2.68, p = 0.028), as did those in the highest quartile (adjusted HR: 2.02, 95% CI: 1.26-3.25, p = 0.004). Sensitivity analysis shows that the association of HCT with all-cause death weakened, while the association with poor functional outcome was strengthened after excluding patients with recurrent stroke. Our results indicated that HCT level could be used as a short-term predictor for poor functional outcomes and all-cause death in patients with AIS or TIA.

Preterm preeclampsia as an independent risk factor for thromboembolism in a large national cohort.

BACKGROUND: Preterm preeclampsia, a product of vascular dysfunction, is associated with prolonged hospital admission and proteinuria, significant risk factors for thromboembolism in pregnancy. The risk of thromboembolism in preterm preeclampsia warrants further investigation. OBJECTIVE: To determine the relationship between preterm preeclampsia and thromboembolic risk. We hypothesize that preterm preeclampsia is an independent risk factor for thromboembolism in pregnancy. STUDY DESIGN: This is a retrospective cohort study using the National Inpatient Sample database via Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project-Agency for Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project from 2017-2019. All subjects with an International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision code for pregnancy or peripartum encounter were included. Subjects were excluded if the gestational age at delivery was <20 weeks or if they had a history of thromboembolism, inherited thrombophilia, or antiphospholipid syndrome. Patients with preterm (delivered <37 weeks) preeclampsia and term (delivered ≥37 weeks) preeclampsia were compared with those without preeclampsia. The primary outcome was a composite of any thromboembolic event, including pulmonary embolism, deep vein thrombosis, cerebral thrombosis or transient ischemic attack, or other thromboses. The secondary outcomes were rates of each type of thromboembolic event. The groups were compared via variance analysis, chi-square, and logistic regression analyses. The logistic regression included those variables that differed between groups with P<.05. RESULTS: Of individuals in the database, >2.2 million met the inclusion criteria. A total of 56,446 (2.7%) had preterm preeclampsia, and 86,152 (6.7%) had term preeclampsia. Those with preterm preeclampsia were more likely to be older, identify as non-Hispanic black, have obesity, have chronic hypertension among other chronic diseases, and be in the lowest quartile of income (P<.001). Among patients with preterm preeclampsia, 0.32% experienced thromboembolism, whereas those with term preeclampsia and without preeclampsia experienced thromboembolism at 0.10% and 0.09%, respectively. After controlling for confounders that differed between groups with P<.05, preterm preeclampsia remained independently associated with any thromboembolic event (adjusted odds ratio, 2.21 [95% confidence interval, 1.84-2.65]), and each type of thromboembolism. Term preeclampsia was not associated with an increased risk of thromboembolism (adjusted odds ratio, 1.18 [95% confidence interval, 0.94-1.48]). CONCLUSION: Preterm preeclampsia is independently associated with an increased risk of thromboembolic events.

Comparison of vascular risk profile and clinical outcomes among patients with central (branch) retinal artery occlusion versus amaurosis fugax.

BACKGROUND: Retinal artery occlusions lead to sudden, painless vision loss, affecting millions globally. Despite their significance, treatment strategies remain unestablished, contrasting with acute ischemic stroke (AIS), where IVT has proven efficacy. Similar to AIS, retinal artery occlusions demand urgent evaluation and treatment, reflecting the principle "time is retina". Even for patients with transient monocular vision loss, also known as amaurosis fugax (AF), pertinent guidelines meanwhile recommend immediate emergency assessment in a specialized facility. However, data on the clinical benefit and comparability with persistent occlusions are missing. This study aimed to compare the results of a comprehensive stroke-workup among patients with persistent retinal artery occlusions (RAO), including both central retinal (CRAO) and branch retinal artery occlusion (BRAO) and those with AF. METHODS: Conducted at the University Hospital Giessen, Germany, this exploratory cross-sectional study enrolled patients with transient or permanent unilateral vision loss of non-arteritic origin. The primary outcome were differences between the two groups RAO and AF with regard to cardiovascular risk profiles and comorbidities, vascular and pharmacological interventions and clinical neurological and ophthalmological outcomes. Secondary outcome was a sub-group analysis of patients receiving IVT. RESULTS: Out of 166 patients assessed, 76 with RAO and 40 with AF met the inclusion criteria. Both groups exhibited comparable age, gender distribution, and cardiovascular risk profiles. Notably, RAO patients did not show significantly more severe vascular comorbidities than AF patients. However, AF patients received vascular interventions more frequently. Pharmacological intervention rates were similar across groups. RAO patients had slightly worse neurological outcomes, and IVT did not yield favorable ophthalmological outcomes within any observed patients. CONCLUSION: The study found similar vascular burden and risk factors in patients with RAO and AF, with implications for clinical workflows. IVT for RAO may only be effective in very early treatment windows. This emphasizes the need for public awareness and collaborative protocols between ophthalmologists and neurologists to improve outcomes.

The left atrial appendage closure by surgery 2 trial: statistical analysis plan for a randomized multicenter trial exploring if the closure of the left atrial appendage during open-heart surgery reduces stroke irrespective of patients' stroke risk and preoperative atrial fibrillation status.

BACKGROUND: Surgical left atrial appendage (LAA) closure concomitant to open-heart surgery prevents thromboembolism in high-risk patients. Nevertheless, high-level evidence does not exist for LAA closure performed in patients with any CHA2DS2-VASc score and preoperative atrial fibrillation or flutter (AF) status-the current trial attempts to provide such evidence. METHODS: The study is designed as a randomized, open-label, blinded outcome assessor, multicenter trial of adult patients undergoing first-time elective open-heart surgery. Patients with and without AF and any CHA2DS2-VASc score will be enrolled. The primary exclusion criteria are planned LAA closure, planned AF ablation, or ongoing endocarditis. Before randomization, a three-step stratification process will sort patients by site, surgery type, and preoperative or expected oral anticoagulation treatment. Patients will undergo balanced randomization (1:1) to LAA closure on top of the planned cardiac surgery or standard care. Block sizes vary from 8 to 16. Neurologists blinded to randomization will adjudicate the primary outcome of stroke, including transient ischemic attack (TIA). The secondary outcomes include a composite outcome of stroke, including TIA, and silent cerebral infarcts, an outcome of ischemic stroke, including TIA, and a composite outcome of stroke and all-cause mortality. LAA closure is expected to provide a 60% relative risk reduction. In total, 1500 patients will be randomized and followed for 2 years. DISCUSSION: The trial is expected to help form future guidelines within surgical LAA closure. This statistical analysis plan ensures transparency of analyses and limits potential reporting biases. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT03724318. Registered 26 October 2018, https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03724318 . PROTOCOL VERSION: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ahj.2023.06.003 .

Comparison of Effectiveness and Safety of Dual Antiplatelet Therapy (DAPT) With Clopidogrel and Aspirin Versus Aspirin Monotherapy in Patients With Mild-to-Moderate Stroke and Transient Ischemic Attack: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

The aim of this meta-analysis was to assess the effectiveness and safety of the combination of clopidogrel and aspirin in patients with mild ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA). The methodologies employed in this meta-analysis strictly followed the commonly used reporting formats for systematic reviews and meta-analyses. The methodologies employed in this meta-analysis strictly followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). Until March 25, 2024, we conducted thorough searches on PubMed, EMBASE (Excerpta Medica Database), and the Cochrane Library to locate studies investigating the efficacy and safety of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) in patients with mild or moderate stroke or TIA. Outcomes assessed in this meta-analysis included stroke (including ischemic stroke and hemorrhagic stroke), myocardial infarction, all bleeding events, and moderate to severe bleeding events. A total of 12 studies were included in this meta-analysis. The total number of enrolled patients across these studies was 35,369, with 16,957 receiving DAPT and 18,412 receiving aspirin monotherapy. The risk of developing stroke was significantly lower in patients receiving the combination of clopidogrel and aspirin compared to the aspirin monotherapy group (relative risk (RR): 0.77, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.72 to 0.83, p-value<0.0001). No significant differences were there in terms of all bleeding events (RR: 1.37, 95% CI: 0.92 to 2.04, p-value: 0.12) and moderate to severe bleeding events (RR: 1.18, 95% CI: 0.86 to 1.63, p-value: 0.30). These findings highlight the importance of carefully weighing the potential benefits against the risks, especially in clinical decision-making for patients with TIA or ischemic stroke. Further research is warranted to elucidate optimal strategies for balancing stroke prevention with bleeding risk mitigation in this patient population.