Intracranial artery calcification: a newly identified risk factor of ischemic stroke

Xiang-yan Chen1, Wynnie Wai Man Lam, Ho Keung Ng

  • 1Department of Anatomical & Cellular Pathology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR.

Insights

Intracranial artery calcification is more common in ischemic stroke patients. This calcification is an independent risk factor for ischemic stroke, alongside traditional factors like hypertension and diabetes.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Radiology
  • Vascular Medicine

Background:

  • Cerebral artery calcification is frequently observed on CT brain scans but remains understudied.
  • Intracranial artery calcification (IAC) prevalence and its association with ischemic stroke require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the incidence of IAC in patients with ischemic stroke.
  • To evaluate the correlation between IAC and ischemic stroke.

Main Methods:

  • A case-control study comparing ischemic stroke patients with age- and gender-matched non-ischemic stroke controls.
  • All participants underwent computed tomography (CT) of the brain.

Main Results:

  • The study included 175 ischemic stroke patients and 182 controls.
  • Intracranial internal carotid artery (IICA) showed the highest calcification prevalence (80.4%).
  • Ischemic stroke patients exhibited a significantly higher prevalence of IAC (92.6%) compared to controls (76.4%, P < .001).
  • Independent risk factors for ischemic stroke included hypertension, diabetes, smoking, IAC, hyperlipidemia, and atrial fibrillation.

Conclusions:

  • Intracranial artery calcification is more prevalent in patients who have experienced an ischemic stroke.
  • IAC is identified as an independent risk factor for ischemic stroke, in addition to established risk factors.
Abstract

Related Concept Videos

Ischemic Stroke l: Introduction01:15

Ischemic Stroke l: Introduction

Ischemic stroke is an acute cerebrovascular condition in which blood flow to a brain region is suddenly interrupted, leading to tissue infarction. Neurons depend on continuous oxygen and glucose supply, so even brief reductions in perfusion cause energy failure, ionic imbalance, and irreversible injury. Ischemic strokes are classified into thrombotic and embolic types based on their underlying mechanisms.Thrombotic MechanismsThrombotic stroke develops when a clot forms within a cerebral artery.
Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System VI: Calcium -Scoring CT01:25

Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System VI: Calcium -Scoring CT

Calcium-Scoring CT ScanA calcium-scoring CT scan, also known as coronary artery calcium (CAC) scan, detects calcium deposits in the coronary arteries. This test assesses the risk of coronary artery disease (CAD), which can lead to cardiovascular events such as angina, heart failure, and sudden cardiac arrest.A calcium-scoring CT scan is generally recommended for individuals at intermediate risk of CAD without symptoms. It includes:Men aged 40-75 and women aged 50-75: Especially those with a...
Hemorrhagic Stroke l: Introduction01:17

Hemorrhagic Stroke l: Introduction

A hemorrhagic stroke is an acute neurological event that occurs when a weakened cerebral blood vessel ruptures, allowing blood to accumulate within or around the brain. The sudden release of blood forms a focal hematoma that increases intracranial pressure, displaces neural tissue, and can obstruct cerebrospinal fluid pathways. These effects may be compounded by intraventricular extension of the hemorrhage, cerebral edema, or compression of adjacent structures, all of which contribute to...
Ischemic Stroke ll: Pathophysiology01:15

Ischemic Stroke ll: Pathophysiology

An ischemic stroke occurs when a cerebral blood vessel becomes obstructed, most often by a thrombus or embolus, interrupting the delivery of oxygen and glucose to brain tissue. Because neurons rely on continuous aerobic metabolism, energy failure begins within minutes of reduced perfusion. The region receiving the least blood flow becomes the infarct core, an area of irreversible cellular death. Surrounding this core lies the penumbra, a zone of hypoperfused but still viable tissue that is...
Arteries of the Head and Neck01:26

Arteries of the Head and Neck

The human body's intricate network of arteries ensures that every organ system receives the necessary oxygen and nutrients for optimal function. The arterial network in the head and neck region is particularly complex, providing vital blood flow to the brain, eyes, and other critical structures. Prominent arteries in this region include the internal carotid arteries and the vertebral arteries.
The internal carotid arteries supply blood to the anterior portion of the cerebrum. They enter the...
Coronary Artery Disease I: Introduction01:30

Coronary Artery Disease I: Introduction

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): An Overview with Scientific InsightsCoronary Artery Disease (CAD), often referred to as C-A-D, is a prevalent blood vessel disorder classified under the broader category of atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is a pathological process characterized by the hardening and narrowing of arteries due to the accumulation of atherosclerotic plaques. These plaques are composed of cholesterol, fatty substances, inflammatory cells, calcium, and fibrin, reducing blood flow to...