EARLY PREDICTION OF ACUTE ISCHEMIC STROKE OUTCOME BY USING ALBERTA STROKE PROGRAM EARLY CT SCORE (ASPECTS)

Abstract

Background and Purpose: The Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS) scale semiquantitatively assesses extent and location of ischemic changes within the middle cerebral artery (MCA) territory using a 10-point grading system. ASPECTS measured at baseline using noncontrast computed tomography (CT) scan. The aim of this study was to assess early prediction of clinical outcome after acute ischemic stroke by ASPECTS scale. Methods: The study based on convenience sample which included 82 first-ever acute ischemic stroke patients, admitted to Hue Central Hospital within 72 hours of stroke onset, from October 2013 to October 2014. Ischemic territory changes were defined as parenchymal CT hypoattenuation. We assessed all baseline CT scans, dichotomized ASPECTS at ≤ 7 and >7, defined good outcome (0 to 2) and poor outcome (3 to 6) as modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score at discharge. Univariate analysis and multivariable logistic regression analysis were performed to define the independent predictors for stroke outcome. Results: Mean age was 68.35 ± 13.93 years, proportion of male (51.2%) and female (48.8%) are approximately the same. ASPECTS score > 7 in 57 patients and ≤ 7 in 25 patients. Mean ASPECTS was 7.51 ± 2.25. Mean mRS at discharge was 2.28 ± 1.33. Good outcome (mRS ≤ 2) and poor outcome (mRS > 2) at discharge were 63.4% and 36.6% respectively. There is a negative correlation between ASPECTS and mRS (r = -0.86, p < 0.001). In the univariate analysis, atrial fibrillation, Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score at admisison, ASPECT score and infarct volume were significantly associated with stroke outcome. All of aforementioned variables underwent multivariate analysis, but none of them was proven to be an independent predictor of early outcome. Conclusion: In patients with first-ever acute ischemic stroke, ASPECT score which bases on conventional computed tomography scan is not independent predictor for clinical outcome at discharge. Key words: ischemic stroke, ASPECTS, outcome