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MRI of subacute hemorrhagic transformation in the rat suture occlusion model
T Neumann-Haefelin1, A Kastrup, A de Crespigny
1Lucas MRI Center, Department of Radiology, Stanford Stroke Center, Stanford University, USA.
Abstract:
In this study we investigated the utility of different MRI techniques for the detection and predictability of hemorrhagic transformation (HT) in a rat model of transient focal cerebral ischemia. Hemorrhagic infarction was reliably identified with gradient-echo sequences and developed between 2 and 7 days following the insult. None of the investigated early MRI features of the ischemic lesions (including the apparent diffusion coefficient and post-reperfusion blood-brain barrier damage) was a good predictor of HT severity at 7 days. This indicates that subacute HT at 2-7 days occurs independently of the severity of acute tissue and BBB damage.
Insights
Gradient-echo MRI reliably detects hemorrhagic transformation (HT) in stroke models. Early MRI signs of ischemic damage do not predict the severity of subacute HT, suggesting it develops independently.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimaging
- Cerebrovascular Research
- Animal Models
Background:
- Hemorrhagic transformation (HT) is a complication of ischemic stroke.
- Accurate prediction of HT is crucial for patient management.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) offers various techniques to study ischemic stroke.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate MRI techniques for detecting hemorrhagic transformation (HT).
- To assess the predictability of early MRI findings for HT severity.
- To investigate the relationship between acute ischemic damage and subacute HT.
Main Methods:
- Transient focal cerebral ischemia was induced in a rat model.
- Gradient-echo sequences and other MRI techniques were used.
- Apparent diffusion coefficient and blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity were assessed.
Main Results:
- Gradient-echo MRI reliably identified hemorrhagic infarction.
- Hemorrhagic infarction developed between 2 and 7 days post-insult.
- Early MRI indicators of ischemic lesion severity did not predict 7-day HT severity.
Conclusions:
- Gradient-echo MRI is effective for detecting HT in ischemic stroke models.
- Subacute HT (2-7 days) appears to occur independently of acute tissue and BBB damage severity.
- Predicting HT severity based on early MRI findings remains challenging.