Statin use is independently associated with smaller infarct volume in nonlacunar MCA territory stroke

Studies have shown an association between HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins) and improved stroke outcomes, possibly secondary to neuroprotective properties.

To assess whether patients taking statins prior to ischemic stroke have smaller infarcts on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), adjusting for other relevant clinical factors.

We retrospectively reviewed the Cleveland Clinic Foundation (CCF) Neurology Inpatient Database from June 2002 through June 2004. Demographics, medications, stroke subtype, diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) infarct volume, admission NIHSS, and hours to MRI were collected. Patients with a nonlacunar middle cerebral artery (MCA) territory infarct and MRI less than 48 hours from symptom onset were included (n= 143). A multivariable linear regression model was constructed to determine independent predictors of smaller infarct volume.

A total of 143 patients were studied, including 38 patients taking statins at the time of their stroke. In univariate analysis, patients using statins were significantly more likely to have a history of hyperlipidemia, atrial fibrillation, and coronary artery disease and to be using coumadin, antiplatelet drugs, and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors. Patients on statins had a tendency toward smaller infarcts in univariate analysis (median 25.4 cm(3) vs. 15.5 cm(3), P= 0.054). In multivariable linear regression analysis statin use, patient age, and TIA within the prior 4 weeks were independently associated with smaller DWI volumes; vessel occlusion on vascular imaging, and cardioembolic stroke subtype with larger infarct size.

Statin use prior to the onset of nonlacunar MCA infarction was associated with a smaller infarct volume independent of other factors. Further studies utilizing both clinical and radiologic outcomes will be required to confirm these findings.