ASSOCIATION OF LEUKOARAIOSIS WITH CLINICAL OUTCOME IN ISCHEMIC STROKE: A CROSS-SECTIONALANALYTICAL STUDY

Abstract

Background And Purpose: Cerebral Leukoaraiosis or white matter hyperintensities are frequently seen in acute stroke, but its clinical consequences on functional recovery are less studied. We aimed to determine the various risk factors associated with leukoaraiosis and to correlate leukoaraiosis with poor clinical outcomes post-stroke. Methods: 100 patients with acute stroke were included in the study and were evaluated at presentation and 3 months post-stroke with NIHSS and MRS scores. All patients underwent an MRI and leukoaraiosis was graded using the Fazekas scale. Results: 64 % of the study population had leukoaraiosis. Severe leukoaraiosis was seen in 19%, moderate in 22%, mild in 23% and 36% had no leukoaraiosis. White matter hyperintensities are common in hypertensives and those above 65 years of age. In multivariable analysis age, initial NIHSS score, and severe leukoaraiosis were independent predictors of poor outcome at 3 months post-stroke. Conclusion: Severe WMH were independently associated with poor functional outcome in post-stroke patients