Early Neurological Deterioration Research Articles

Abstract TP270: Development and Validation of a Nomogram Model for Predicting Early Neurological Deterioration in Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients Treated With Intravenous Thrombolysis

Objective: A proportion of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients suffer from early neurological deterioration (END) within 24 hours following intravenous thrombolysis (IVT), which greatly increases the risk of poor prognosis of these patients. Therefore, we aimed to explore the predictors of early neurological deterioration of ischemic origin (END i ) in AIS patients after IVT and develop a nomogram prediction model. Methods: This study collected 244 AIS patients with post-thrombolysis END i as the derivation cohort and 155 patients as the validation cohort. In the derivation cohort, multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to identify the independent risk factors for END i , which were subsequently used to establish the nomogram predictive model. Furthermore, the validation cohort data were used for external validation of the nomogram. Results: The results of multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) (OR 2.616, 95% CI 1.640-4.175, P<0.001), mean platelet volume (MPV) (OR 3.334, 95% CI 1.351-8.299, P=0.009), body mass index (BMI) (OR 1.979, 95% CI 1.285-3.048, P=0.002) and atrial fibrillation (AF) (OR 8.012, 95% CI 1.341-47.873, P=0.023) were significantly associated with END i . The area under the curve of the prediction model constructed from the above four factors was 0.981 (95% CI 0.961-1.000) and the calibration curve was close to the ideal diagonal line. Furthermore, decision curve analysis showed a significantly greater net benefit of the nomogram. These results were successfully validated internally and externally. Conclusions: NLR, MPV, BMI and AF were independent risk factors and predictors of END i . The nomogram prediction model based on these four factors exhibited good discrimination and calibration power. It might be a reliable and easy-to-use tool to predict post-thrombolysis END i in AIS patients. Keywords: Acute ischemic stroke; early neurological deterioration; intravenous thrombolysis; nomogram; prediction model

Abstract TMP63: Blood Pressure (BP) Protocol Violations in IV Tenecteplase Treated Ischemic Stroke Patients is Associated With Early Neurologic Deterioration and Symptomatic Intracranial Hemorrhage

Background: The American Heart Association guidelines recommend BP goal of <180/105 mmHg for the first 24 hours in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients treated with IV Alteplase and now adopted for IV Tenecteplase (TNK). Studies suggest increased hemorrhage risk in patients with BP ≥170 mmHg and greater BP variability. Methods: We performed a retrospective study with data from the Get with The Guidelines database and electronic medical record of all adult AIS patients treated with TNK at a Comprehensive Stroke Center from 6/2021 to 6/2023. All BP readings from ED arrival to 24 hours post TNK were queried. We analyzed the temporal trends of BP characteristics and their association with early neurological deterioration (END) and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH). The BP characteristics included mean and standard deviation of systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) measurements, intra-patient BP variability and frequency of excessive BP (SBP > 180 mmHg and DBP > 105 mmHg) at each time point. Results: There were 132 TNK treated patients: mean age 68 ± 15 years, 54% male, 73% Caucasian, median admission NIHSS 9, IQR 4-15, 42 (32%) underwent mechanical thrombectomy, 72 (54.5%) treated with IV antihypertensive(s). Of these, 6 (4.5%) developed END and another 6 (4.5%) sICH. Of the 5901 BP measurements, 217 (3.7%) and 99 (1.7%) exceeded systolic of >180 mmHg and diastolic of >105 mmHg respectively. All END and sICH patients had excessive BP within 4 hours post TNK (Figure 1) and during this time there was a strong association of END with excessive SBP (14% vs 4.8%; p=0.05) and DBP (14% vs 1.2%; p < 0.001). sICH had a similar but weaker association: excessive SBP (7.7% vs 4.9%; p=0.3) and excessive DBP (3.8% vs 1.4%; p=0.2). Conclusion: Our findings suggest that excessive BPs within 4 hours of TNK may be associated with patients developing END and sICH. Further exploration of moderate BP parameters deserve further study post thrombolysis, like the BEST II study in post thrombectomy patients.

Abstract WP9: Ischemic Stroke Progression After Witnessed Onset in Daytime vs Night-Time

Introduction: Early neurologic deterioration (END) and poor functional outcomes are more frequent with night than daytime onset of ischemic stroke. This variation may be related to: 1) circadian variation endogenous bodily rhythms and/or 2) extrinsic environmental time cues. Methods: To assess the contribution of extrinsic environmental time to ischemic stroke course, we evaluated patients with acute cerebral ischemia (ACI) onset within last 2h, enrolled in the NIH FAST-MAG trial of prehospital neuroprotection, consisting of patients with witnessed/wake onset. Results: Among 1235 ACI patients (ischemic stroke 1033, TIA 202), age was 70.8 [±13.2], 45.3% female, initial NIHSS 7 (IQR 2-15), LKW to randomization 59 mins (IQR 46-80), and 473 (38%) treated with IV lytics. Onset occurred during clock daytime (07:00-22:59) in 1147 (92.9%) and night-time (23:00-06:59) in 88 (7.1%). Patients were similar in 18 baseline characteristics, but night-onset had higher initial SBP (162 vs 155, p=0.01) and longer onset to paramedic times (33m vs 23m, p = 0.0002). Among non-lytic patients, both unadjusted and adjusted clinical outcomes were similar in night vs daytime patients, including END (13.6% vs 16.4%), 90d mRS 0-2 (63.6% vs 58.5%), and 90d mortality (10.2% vs 12.8%). Among lytic patients, clinical outcomes were also similar in night vs daytime onset patients, including unadjusted END (36% vs 21.7%), 90d mRS 0-2 (52% vs 46.9%), and 90d mortality (12% vs 17.4%). Night vs daytime onset did not modify the effect of magnesium vs placebo on outcome among either non-thrombolytic or thrombolytic-treated patients (Figure). Conclusion: Among acute cerebral ischemia patients, efficacy, safety, and neuroprotective agent response outcomes were not modified by witnessed onset during active versus inactive phase clock times. These findings suggest biological wake-sleep state rather than chronologic clock time is the driver of known circadian rhythmicity in stroke course.

Abstract 50: Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitors Use in Diabetic Patients With Acute Ischemic Stroke is Linked to Favorable Neurological Outcomes

Background: The benefits of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) have been demonstrated preclinically. Here, we evaluated the neurological effects of SGLT2i use after stroke in patients with diabetes and AIS. Methods: Using a prospective stroke registry, we reviewed consecutive diabetic patients with AIS. Patients with and without SGLT2i use were 1:4 propensity score-matched for clinical variables. Clinical outcomes, including early neurological deterioration (END) during admission, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score at discharge, and modified Rankin Scale (mRS) scores at discharge and at 3 months, were compared. The impact of SGLT2i on metabolic activity of various organs was examined in another cohort using 18 F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography post-stroke. Results: Among the 820 eligible patients, 90 (11.0%) were prescribed SGLT2i on admission, and 76 continued the prescription at discharge. Seventy-four patients with and 266 patients without SGLT2i use were propensity score-matched and analyzed. SGLT2i did not increase the END risk (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.48, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.20-1.19). There was no significant difference in clinical outcomes at discharge between the two groups (NIHSS: B [standard error] -1.321 [0.952], p=0.17; mRS: aOR for favorable mRS 1.47, 95% CI 0.93-2.32). SGLT2i demonstrated significant improvement in the 3-month mRS (aOR 1.73, 95% CI 1.10-2.74). The positron emission tomography cohort showed that SGLT2i prescription was associated with elevated brown and subcutaneous adipose tissue metabolism. Conclusions: SGLT2i may be a priority for diabetic patients with AIS because of its potential benefits on long-term outcomes.

Trendelenburg position for acute anterior circulation ischaemic stroke with large artery atherosclerosis aetiology (HOPES 3): rationale and design

RationaleThe effect of the head position as a non-pharmacological therapy on acute ischaemic stroke (AIS) remains inconclusive. Our recent Head dOwn-Position for acutE moderate ischaemic Stroke with large artery atherosclerosis...

FLAIR signal intensity ratio predicts small subcortical infarct early neurologic deterioration: a cross-sectional study.

Prior studies have used the fluid-attenuated inversion recovery sequence signal intensity ratio (FLAIR-SIR) to predict those with an incomplete infarct that may safely receive acute thrombolytics. Clinical early neurologic deterioration (END) of small subcortical infarcts (SSIs) is suspected to occur due to delayed infarct completion. We aimed to understand if a lower FLAIR-SIR, suggestive of an incomplete infarct, would have a higher likelihood of SSI-related END. A cross-sectional retrospective study was performed of those with an acute SSI (anterior or posterior circulation) without significant parent vessel steno-occlusive disease. END was defined as a new or worsened disabling neurologic deficit during the index hospitalization. Standard-of-care brain MRIs were reviewed from the hospitalization, and a FLAIR-SIR cutoff of ≤ 1.15 was used based on prior studies. Adjusted logistic regression models were used for analysis. We identified 252 patients meeting inclusion criteria: median (IQR) age 68 (12) years, 38.5% (97/252) female, and 11% (28/252) with END. Tobacco use was more common in those without END (32%) compared with END (55%, p = 0.03). In adjusted analyses, a FLAIR-SIR cutoff of ≤ 1.15 yielded an odds ratio of 2.8 (95% CI 1.23-6.13, p = 0.012) of early neurological deterioration. Those with a FLAIR-SIR ≤ 1.15 are nearly threefold more likely to develop SSI-related END.

MRI-based clinical-radiomics nomogram to predict early neurological deterioration in isolated acute pontine infarction: a two-center study in Northeast China

ObjectiveTo predict the appearance of early neurological deterioration (END) among patients with isolated acute pontine infarction (API) based on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-derived radiomics of the infarct site.Methods544 patients with isolated API were recruited from two centers and divided into the training set (n = 344) and the verification set (n = 200). In total, 1702 radiomics characteristics were extracted from each patient. A support vector machine algorithm was used to construct a radiomics signature (rad-score). Subsequently, univariate and multivariate logistic regression (LR) analysis was adopted to filter clinical indicators and establish clinical models. Then, based on the LR algorithm, the rad-score and clinical indicators were integrated to construct the clinical-radiomics model, which was compared with other models.ResultsA clinical-radiomics model was established, including the 5 indicators rad-score, age, initial systolic blood pressure, initial National Institute of Health Stroke Scale, and triglyceride. A nomogram was then made based on the model. The nomogram had good predictive accuracy, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.966 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.947–0.985) and 0.920 (95% [CI] 0.873–0.967) in the training and verification sets, respectively. According to the decision curve analysis, the clinical-radiomics model showed better clinical value than the other models. In addition, the calibration curves also showed that the model has excellent consistency.ConclusionThe clinical-radiomics model combined MRI-derived radiomics and clinical metrics and may serve as a scoring tool for early prediction of END among patients with isolated API.

Analysis of Clinical Characteristics and Influencing Factors of Early Neurological Deterioration in Patients With Mild Stroke by Intravenous Alteplase Therapy.

Thrombolysis treatment for patients with mild stroke is controversial. The aim of our study was to investigate the clinical characteristics and influencing factors of early neurological deterioration (END) in this group of patients. A retrospective analysis was performed on ischemic stroke patients with intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) in Wenzhou Central Hospital. Subgroup analyses were performed for the mild stroke group and nonmild stroke group, END group, and non-early neurological deterioration group in mild stroke patients, respectively. A total of 498 patients were included in this study. Compared with the control group, the mild stroke group was younger age, less atrial fibrillation, previous history of stroke and less use of antithrombotic drugs, more dyslipidemia, smoking, and drinking. Small artery occlusion type was more common in mild stroke, cardioembolism and stroke of undetermined etiology type were less. In the mild stroke group, the symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH) rate was 2.54%, and the END rate was 16.1%. Predictors of END included systolic blood pressure, blood glucose, cardioembolism subtype, sICH, and large vessel occlusion. In END patients, the sICH rate was 10.53%, and 84.21% of cases started to worsen within 12 hours after IVT. There was no statistically significant difference in the time to exacerbation among different subtypes. The occurrence of mild stroke in young patients was largely related to unhealthy lifestyles. The incidence of END in mild stroke IVT patients was low, with most occurring within 12 hours of IVT. There were many risk factors for END: large vessel occlusion and hyperglycemia were independent risk factors for END after IVT. sICH was an important but rare risk factor for END.

Predictive value of serum MDA and 4-HNE levels on the occurrence of early neurological deterioration after intravenous thrombolysis with rt-PA IVT in patients with acute ischemic stroke

ObjectiveThis study investigated the predictive value of serum MDA and 4-HNE levels on early neurological deterioration (END) after recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rt-PA) intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients. MethodsThis study analyzed 287 AIS patients with standard-dose rt-PA IVT. Clinical baseline and pathological data were recorded before rt-PA IVT, and neurologic deficit was assessed by NIHSS. AIS patients were classified into Non-END and END groups. Serum MDA and 4-HNE levels were determined by ELISA and their correlations with NIHSS scores were evaluated. AIS patients were allocated into groups with high and low MDA or 4-HNE expression, and post-IVT END incidence was compared. Independent risk indexes for post-IVT END and the predictive value of serum MDA+4-HNE levels on post-IVT END were assessed. ResultsSerum MDA and 4-HNE were higher in AIS patients with post-IVT END. NIHSS score showed a positive correlation with serum MDA and 4-HNE levels. MDA levels were positively correlated with 4-HNE levels in AIS patients. END after IVT was increased in AIS patients with high MDA/4-HNE expression. FBG, lymphocyte percentage, PLR, NIHSS score, serum MDA, and 4-HNE levels were independent risk factors for END after IVT. The diagnostic efficacy of MDA+4-HNE in assessing post-IVT END in AIS patients (sensitivity 92.00 %, specificity 82.70 %) was higher than MDA or 4-HNE alone. ConclusionSerum MDA and 4-HNE levels were higher in AIS patients with post-IVT END than in those with non-END, and MDA+4-HNE possessed a higher predictive value for post-IVT END in AIS patients.

Argatroban in Patients With Acute Ischemic Stroke With Early Neurological Deterioration

The effect of argatroban in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and early neurological deterioration (END) is unknown. To assess the efficacy of argatroban for END in AIS. This open-label, blinded-end point, randomized clinical trial was conducted from April 4, 2020, through July 31, 2022. The date of final follow-up was October 31, 2022. This was a multicenter trial. Eligible patients were adults with AIS who experienced END, which was defined as an increase of 2 or more points on the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale within 48 hours from symptom onset. Patients who withdrew consent, experienced duplicate randomization, or were lost to follow-up were excluded from the study. Patients were randomly assigned to the argatroban group and control group within 48 hours of symptom onset. Both groups received standard therapy based on guidelines, including oral mono or dual antiplatelet therapy. The argatroban group received intravenous argatroban for 7 days (continuous infusion at a dose of 60 mg per day for 2 days, followed by 20 mg per day for 5 days) in addition to standard therapy. The primary end point was good functional outcome at 90 days, defined as a modified Rankin Scale score of 0 to 3. A total of 628 patients (mean [SD] age, 65 [11.9] years; 400 male [63.7%]) were included in this study (argatroban group, 314 [50%] and control group, 314 [50%]). Of these, 18 withdrew consent, 1 had duplicate randomization, and 8 were lost to follow-up. A total of 601 patients with stroke were included in the intention-to-treat analysis. Finally, 564 patients were included in the per-protocol analysis as 6 participants in the argatroban group and 31 participants in the control group did not follow the complete protocol. The number of patients with good functional outcome at 90 days was 240 (80.5%) in the argatroban group and 222 (73.3%) in the control group (risk difference, 7.2%; 95% CI, 0.6%-14.0%; risk ratio, 1.10; 95% CI, 1.01-1.20; P = .04). The proportion of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage was 3 of 317 (0.9%) in the argatroban group and 2 of 272 (0.7%) in the control group (P = .78). Among patients with AIS with END, treatment with argatroban and antiplatelet therapy resulted in a better functional outcome at 90 days. This trial provided evidence to support the use of argatroban in reducing disability for patients with END. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04275180.

Blood Pressure Trajectories and Outcomes After Endovascular Thrombectomy for Acute Ischemic Stroke.

Data on systolic blood pressure (SBP) trajectories in the first 24 hours after endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) in acute ischemic stroke are limited. We sought to identify these trajectories and their relationship to outcomes. We combined individual-level data from 5 studies of patients with acute ischemic stroke who underwent EVT and had individual blood pressure values after the end of the procedure. We used group-based trajectory analysis to identify the number and shape of SBP trajectories post-EVT. We used mixed effects regression models to identify associations between trajectory groups and outcomes adjusting for potential confounders and reported the respective adjusted odds ratios (aORs) and common odds ratios. There were 2640 total patients with acute ischemic stroke included in the analysis. The most parsimonious model identified 4 distinct SBP trajectories, that is, general directional patterns after repeated SBP measurements: high, moderate-high, moderate, and low. Patients in the higher blood pressure trajectory groups were older, had a higher prevalence of vascular risk factors, presented with more severe stroke syndromes, and were less likely to achieve successful recanalization after the EVT. In the adjusted analyses, only patients in the high-SBP trajectory were found to have significantly higher odds of early neurological deterioration (aOR, 1.84 [95% CI, 1.20-2.82]), intracranial hemorrhage (aOR, 1.84 [95% CI, 1.31-2.59]), mortality (aOR, 1.75 [95% CI, 1.21-2.53), death or disability (aOR, 1.63 [95% CI, 1.15-2.31]), and worse functional outcomes (adjusted common odds ratio,1.92 [95% CI, 1.47-2.50]). Patients follow distinct SBP trajectories in the first 24 hours after an EVT. Persistently elevated SBP after the procedure is associated with unfavorable short-term and long-term outcomes.

A High Fibrinogen-to-Albumin Ratio on Admission is Associated with Early Neurological Deterioration Following Intravenous Thrombolysis in Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke.

The fibrinogen-to-albumin ratio (FAR) is a novel inflammation marker associated with various diseases. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between FAR and early neurological deterioration (END) after intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS). From September 1, 2021, to March 31, 2023, continuously recruited AIS patients who received IVT within 4.5 hours were included in the study. Blood samples were collected in the emergency room before IVT. The National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score was assessed upon admission and after thrombolysis within the first 24 hours. END was defined as an increase in the NIHSS score by ≥ 4 points within 24 hours after thrombolysis. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to explore the relationship between FAR and END, and a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to evaluate the predictive ability of FAR for END. 343 participants were recruited, and 59 (17.2%) experienced END. Patients with END had higher FAR levels than those without END (P<0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that FAR was independently associated with END, both as a continuous variable and as a tertile variable (P<0.005). After excluding patients with hemorrhagic transformation (HT), FAR remained independently associated with END (P<0.005). The area under the curve (AUC) of FAR for predicting END was 0.650 (95% CI=0.571-0.729, P<0.001), with an optimal cutoff of 72.367 mg/g, a sensitivity of 61.6%, and a specificity of 62.6%. FAR upon admission was independently associated with END after IVT and can be an effective predictor.

Predictive value of glycoprotein DKK3 for early neurological deterioration after ischemic stroke

ObjectiveTo explore the value of serum Dickkopf-3 (sDKK3) in predicting Early Neurological Deterioration (END) and in-hospital adverse outcomes in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients. MethodsAIS patients (n = 200) were included and assessed by the National Institutes of Health Stroke Rating Scale. Serum Dkk3 levels were assessed by ELISA. END was defined as an increase of ≥ 4 points in NIHSS score within 72h. The biological threshold of sDKK3 level and END occurrence were predicted based on X-tile software. Primary outcomes were END and all-cause death, and the secondary outcome was ICU admission during hospitalization. The logistic regression model and Cox risk regression model were applied to evaluate the relationship between DKK3 level and END incidence, all-cause in-hospital mortality, and in-hospital adverse outcomes (ICU admission). ResultsDuring hospitalization, the incidence of END in patients with AIS was 13.0 %, and the mortality rate within 7 days after END was 11.54 % (3/26). In patients below the serum DKK3 cutoff (93.0 pg/mL), the incidence of END was 43.5 % (20/48). Patients with lower sDKK3 levels were associated with a 1.188-fold increased risk of developing END (OR = 1.188, 95 % CI 1.055‒1.369, p < 0.0001). However, there was no significant association with admission to the ICU. sDKK3 below the threshold (93.0 pg/mL) was a risk factor for death. ConclusionPredictive threshold levels of serum DKK3 based on X-tile software may be a potential predictive biomarker of in-hospital END in patients with AIS, and low levels of DKK3 are independently associated with increased in-hospital mortality.

Peripheral Lymphocyte-to-Monocyte Ratio as a Predictive Factor for Early Neurological Deterioration in Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke.

Previous studies have reported that lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR) is associated with the prognosis of patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS); however, the relationship between LMR and early neurological deterioration (END) in AIS patients has not been elucidated. Patients were divided into two groups according to LMR by using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Patients with END were confirmed as the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) increased ≥ 4 points between hospital days 0 and 5. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to analyze the factors independently related to END in patients with AIS. In total, 202 patients diagnosed with AIS were enrolled in this retrospective study. Using ROC curve analysis, patients were divided into two groups according to LMR: low LMR group (LMR < 3.24, n = 95) and high LMR group (LMR ≥ 3.24, n = 107). The frequencies of END were significantly higher in the low LMR group compared to the high LMR group (41.05 vs.15.89%, p < 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression showed that age (OR = 1.03, 95% CI 1.01-1.06, p = 0.04), infarct volume (OR = 1.01, 95% CI 1.00-1.02, p = 0.001), neutrophil count (OR = 1.17, 95% CI 1.03-1.33, p = 0.018), and LMR (OR = 2.49, 95% CI 1.01-9.11, p = 0.018) were independently associated with END in AIS patients. A peripheral LMR levels at admission were significantly associated with END and LMR < 3.24 is an independent predictive factor of END in patients with AIS.

Prediction of early neurologic deterioration in patients with perforating artery territory infarction using machine learning: a retrospective study.

Early neurological deterioration (END) is a frequent complication in patients with perforating artery territory infarction (PAI), leading to poorer outcomes. Therefore, we aimed to apply machine learning (ML) algorithms to predict the occurrence of END in PAI and investigate related risk factors. This retrospective study analyzed a cohort of PAI patients, excluding those with severe stenosis of the parent artery. We included demographic characteristics, clinical features, laboratory data, and imaging variables. Recursive feature elimination with cross-validation (RFECV) was performed to identify critical features. Seven ML algorithms, namely logistic regression, random forest, adaptive boosting, gradient boosting decision tree, histogram-based gradient boosting, extreme gradient boosting, and category boosting, were developed to predict END in PAI patients using these critical features. We compared the accuracy of these models in predicting outcomes. Additionally, SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) values were introduced to interpret the optimal model and assess the significance of input features. The study enrolled 1,020 PAI patients with a mean age of 60.46 (range 49.11-71.81) years. Of these, 30.39% were women, and 129 (12.65%) experienced END. RFECV selected 13 critical features, including blood urea nitrogen (BUN), total cholesterol (TC), low-density-lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), apolipoprotein B (apoB), atrial fibrillation, loading dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT), single antiplatelet therapy (SAPT), argatroban, the basal ganglia, the thalamus, the posterior choroidal arteries, maximal axial infarct diameter (measured at < 15 mm), and stroke subtype. The gradient-boosting decision tree had the highest area under the curve (0.914) among the seven ML algorithms. The SHAP analysis identified apoB as the most significant variable for END. Our results suggest that ML algorithms, especially the gradient-boosting decision tree, are effective in predicting the occurrence of END in PAI patients.

Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index is a Prognostic Predictor for Patients With Acute Ischemic Stroke Treated With Intravenous Thrombolysis.

To investigate whether baseline systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) is associated with 3-month poor prognosis and early neurological outcomes in patients with acute ischemic stroke treated with intravenous thrombolysis. A total of 221 consecutive patients were enrolled in the retrospective study. The primary endpoints were poor functional outcomes or death at 3 months. Secondary endpoints were early neurological deterioration (END) or symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage within 24 hours. Receiver operating characteristic curve analyses was performed to assess the overall discriminative ability of SII in predicting the 4 endpoints. We also performed the Spearman correlation test to evaluate the relationship between SII and stroke severity. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate the associations between SII and endpoints. The cutoff values of SII were 504.99×10 9 /L for predicting a 3-month poor prognosis (sensitivity, 70.9% and specificity, 69.6%), 524.47×10 9 /L for predicting 3-month death (sensitivity, 78.9% and specificity, 59.9%) and 504.99×10 9 /L for predicting END (sensitivity, 70.7% and specificity, 62.6%), respectively. A positive association between SII and the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale was observed ( rs = 0.306, P < 0.001). Multivariable analyses indicated that SII was independently associated with 3-month poor prognosis [odds ratio (OR) = 5.384; 95% CI: 2.844-10.193; P < 0.001], 3-month death (OR = 2.592, 95% CI: 1.046-6.421, P = 0.040) and END (OR = 3.202, 95% CI: 1.796-5.707, P < 0.001). Increased baseline SII was associated with END and 3-month poor outcomes, and may act as a potential prognostic predictor for acute ischemic stroke patients treated with intravenous thrombolysis.

Preliminary results on temporal evolution and clinical implications of atherosclerotic plaque in branch atheromatous disease after statin treatment.

Branch atheromatous disease (BAD) is a primary cause of early neurological deterioration (END) in penetrating artery occlusion, leading to poor functional outcomes. While it has been proposed to classify BAD under large artery atherosclerosis, uncertainty exists regarding the optimal treatment strategy, including cholesterol-lowering targets. We aimed to assess the clinical implications and temporal changes of atherosclerotic plaques before and after high-intensity statin treatment. This is a high-resolution vessel-wall imaging sub-analysis of the trial of Statin and Dual Antiplatelet Therapy in Preventing Early Neurological Deterioration in Branch Atheromatous Disease (SATBRAD). In this prospective, single-group cohort study, participants in the treatment arm of the SATBRAD trial received early dual antiplatelet therapy and high-intensity statin treatment. The majority of these participants subsequently underwent high-resolution vessel-wall magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Those with atheromatous plaques in the parent artery continued high-intensity statin treatment for 6 months, followed by a repeat MRI to monitor plaque changes. There were 57 patients who underwent vessel-wall imaging and 24 exhibited contrast-enhanced plaques. Patients with contrast-enhanced plaques showed higher rates of END (29.2% vs 6.1%, p = 0.027), perfusion defects (62.5% vs 24.2%, p = 0.004), and lower rates of good outcomes at 3 months (50.0% vs 81.8%, p = 0.011). After adjusting for confounding factors, contrast-enhanced plaque had a negative impact on achieving a good outcome at 3 months (adjusted odds ratio = 0.04; 95% confidence interval = <0.01-0.60). Following high-intensity statin treatment in 36 patients, there was a notable reduction in stenosis (33.7% vs 29.3%, p = 0.005) and contrast-enhanced plaque volume (16.3 vs 11.6 mm3, p = 0.015). The study highlighted the association between contrast-enhanced atherosclerotic plaques, END, and poor functional outcomes, with high-intensity treatment leading to plaque volume reduction. These results underscore the shared pathology between BAD and intracranial atherosclerosis, emphasizing the necessity for further research and tailored treatment strategies for BAD. ClinicalTrials.gov; Identifier: NCT04824911 (https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04824911).

Higher Serum Occludin Level after Intracerebral Haemorrhage is Associated with Early Neurological Deterioration

Higher Serum Occludin Level after Intracerebral Haemorrhage is Associated with Early Neurological Deterioration

Anterior transpetrosal approach and the tumor removal rate, postoperative neurological changes, and complications: experience in 274 cases over 33 years.

The authors report on the anterior transpetrosal approach (ATPA) and the results of surgeries performed over a 33-year period for petroclival tumors, including meningioma, trigeminal schwannoma, chordoma, and epidermoid tumor. They analyze early postoperative neurological changes, surgical complications, and trends over the decades. A retrospective analysis of 274 surgical cases that had undergone the ATPA from January 1984 to March 2017 was conducted. Data were collected from charts, clinical summaries, operative records, and operative videos. The analyzed parameters included patient diagnosis, tumor size, disease location, operation date, tumor removal rate, pre- and postoperative neurological symptoms (consciousness level, motor and sensory deficits of the limbs, sensory aphasia, and cranial nerve III-VIII injuries), surgical deaths, and radiologically recognized brain injuries after the operation (contusion, infarction, hemorrhage). Gross-total resection (GTR) was achieved in 53.5% of the 243 tumors with available data. The GTR rate for meningiomas (148 cases) was 54.1%. Trigeminal schwannomas had a high GTR rate of 87.1%, whereas chordomas had a low GTR rate of 14.3%. The rate of early neurological deterioration immediately after the ATPA, referred to as "early neurological change," was as follows: consciousness disturbance in 1.9% of cases (5 cases), improvement of hemiparesis in 45.0% of cases but deterioration in 8.1% of cases, sensory aphasia in 2.3% of cases due to temporal lobe injury, improvement of cerebellar symptoms in 39.3% of cases with rare deterioration (1.9% of cases), worsening of preoperative diplopia in 49.4% of patients and rarely improving, improvement of trigeminal symptoms in 19.1% of cases (mostly trigeminal neuralgia) among the 43.7% of patients who had them preoperatively, and deterioration of facial hypesthesia and/or paresthesia in 27.4% of cases. Early neurological deterioration was monitored in 183 patients for 6 months to determine the surgical complications of ATPA. Consciousness disturbance recovered in half of the cases but persisted in 3 (1.5%). Hemiparesis fully recovered in 63.2% of cases, resulting in a complication rate of 3.0%. The most frequent complication was diplopia (36.4%), with a complete remission rate of 26.4%. The second most frequent complication was facial hypesthesia (24.0%), with a recovery rate of 16.1%. Facial nerve palsy improved in 63.0% of cases and had a complication rate of 4.9%. Cerebellar symptoms showed complete recovery in all cases. The ATPA allows the removal of petroclival tumors extending into Meckel's cave and the middle fossa, making it preferred for dumbbell trigeminal schwannomas and meningiomas. However, the ATPA's aggressive tumor removal can risk a lower recovery of cranial nerve IV-VI deficits. For benign meningiomas, initial observation with regular follow-up is recommended. Surgery is appropriate for high-growth cases aiming for total removal, accompanied by a thorough explanation of the risks. If the risks are not accepted, subtotal removal can be considered, and radiosurgery is suggested for residual tumor.

Serum neurofilament light chain: a predictive marker for outcomes following mild-to-moderate ischemic stroke.

Biomarkers that reflect brain damage or predict functional outcomes may aid in guiding personalized stroke treatments. Serum neurofilament light chain (sNfL) emerges as a promising candidate for fulfilling this role. This prospective, observational cohort investigation included 319 acute ischemic stroke (IS) patients. The endpoints were the incidence of early neurological deterioration (END, an elevation of two or more points in the National Institute of Health stroke scale score within a week of hospitalization compared with the baseline) and functional outcome at 3 months (an mRS score of >2 at 3 months was categorized as an unfavorable/poor functional outcome). The association of sNfL, which was assessed within 24 h of admission, with END and unfavorable functional outcomes at follow-up was assessed via multivariate logistic regression, whereas the predictive value of sNfL for unfavorable functional outcomes and END was elucidated by the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC). Of 319 IS individuals, 89 (27.90%) suffered from END. sNfL not only reflects the severity of stroke measured by NIHSS score (p < 0.05) but also closely related to the severity of age-related white matter changes. Higher initial NIHSS score, severe white matter lesions, diabetes mellitus, and upregulated sNfL were significant predictors of END. Similarly, the multivariate logistic regression analysis results showed that elevated sNfL, a higher baseline NIHSS score, and severe white matter lesions were substantially linked with unfavorable outcomes for 3 months. Similarly, sNfL was valuable for the prediction of the 3 months of poor outcome (95%CI, 0.504-0.642, p = 0.044). Kaplan-Meier analysis shows that patients with elevated sNfL levels are more likely to reach combined cerebrovascular endpoints (log-rank test p < 0.05). This investigation suggests that sNfL can serve as a valuable biomarker for predicting END and 3-month poor functional outcomes after an IS and has the potential to forecast long-term cardiovascular outcomes.