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Aortic atheromas and stroke: review of literature

Enrico Vizzardi1, Sandro Gelsomino, Antonio D'Aloia

  • 1Section of Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Applied Experimental Medicine, Brescia University, Brescia, Italy. enrico.vizzardi@tin.it

Journal of Investigative Medicine : the Official Publication of the American Federation for Clinical Research
|August 8, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Aortic atherosclerosis, a common aortic arch disease, poses stroke risks. This review examines its epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment controversies for affected patients.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Neurology
  • Vascular Surgery

Background:

  • Aortic atherosclerosis is the predominant condition affecting the aortic arch.
  • Complicated aortic atheroma signifies an elevated risk for cerebrovascular events, particularly stroke.
  • Significant clinical debate exists regarding the optimal management strategies for these high-risk patients.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To conduct a comprehensive literature review on aortic atherosclerosis and its link to stroke.
  • To analyze the epidemiology, plaque classification, and diagnostic imaging modalities for aortic atheroma.
  • To evaluate current therapeutic options and review clinical trial data for stroke prevention in this context.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic review of existing literature on aortic atherosclerosis and stroke.
  • Analysis of epidemiological data and classification systems for aortic plaques.
  • Evaluation of diagnostic imaging techniques and therapeutic interventions.
  • Review of completed and ongoing clinical trials.

Main Results:

  • Aortic atherosclerosis is a significant risk factor for stroke.
  • Classification of atheroma plaques aids in risk stratification.
  • Advanced imaging improves diagnostic accuracy.
  • Therapeutic strategies are evolving, with ongoing clinical trials.

Conclusions:

  • Patients with aortic atherosclerosis, especially complicated atheroma, require careful risk assessment for stroke.
  • Evidence-based guidelines for treatment are still under development due to ongoing research and clinical trials.
  • Further research is crucial to refine diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for aortic atherosclerosis to mitigate stroke risk.

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