Abstract P686: Ischemic Stroke in Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome

Abstract

Introduction: Ischemic stroke is the cause for major morbidity and mortality in reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS). While there is evidence to suggest that ischemic stroke in RCVS is associated with proximal vasoconstriction, it is still unclear why some patients develop ischemic lesions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the risk factors and outcomes of ischemic stroke in RCVS. Methods: We utilized the Nationwide Readmissions Database 2016-2017 to identify all hospitalizations with the discharge diagnosis of RCVS. Occurrence of acute ischemic stroke was identified. Hospitalizations with the diagnosis of hemorrhagic stroke were excluded. Survey design methods were used to generate national estimates. Independent predictors of ischemic stroke were analyzed using multivariable logistic regression analysis with results expressed as odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results: Among the total 1,065 hospitalizations for RCVS during the study period (mean±SD age: 49.0±16.7 years, female 69.7%), 267 (25.1%) had occurrence of acute ischemic stroke. Patients with ischemic stroke were more likely to have history of hypertension (OR 2.33, 95% CI 1.51-3.60), diabetes (OR 1.81, 95% CI 1.11-2.98), and tobacco use (OR 1.64, 95% CI 1.16-2.33) and less likely to have a history of migraine (OR 0.56, 95% CI 0.35-0.90). Patients with stroke were more likely to develop cerebral edema. They also had longer hospital stay, higher hospital charges, and lower likelihood of being discharged to home or inpatient rehabilitation facility. They had higher in-hospital mortality rate, the difference was however not statistically significant. Conclusion: In conclusion, ischemic stroke affects nearly 25% of patients with RCVS and is associated with an increased rate of other neurologic complications and worse functional outcomes. Patients with traditional cerebrovascular risk factors might have a higher predisposition for developing the ischemic lesions.