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Correlation between hemorheologic parameters and carotid atherosclerosis in stroke
M Mercuri1, G Orecchini, A Susta
1Internal Medicine Dept., University of Perugia, Policlinico Monteluce, Italy.
Angiology
|April 1, 1989
Summary
This study found that older age, higher fibrinogen levels, and reduced whole blood filterability may be linked to atherosclerotic lesions in the carotid arteries of acute stroke patients. These hemorheologic factors are important for understanding stroke risk.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Vascular Medicine
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Acute stroke patients often have underlying vascular conditions.
- Extracranial carotid artery disease is a significant risk factor for stroke.
- Hemorheologic parameters can reflect blood flow and clot formation tendencies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between hemorheologic parameters and extracranial carotid artery atherosclerosis in acute stroke patients.
- To identify potential risk factors for carotid artery lesions in this population.
Main Methods:
- 48 acute stroke patients (60-75 years) underwent ultrasonography of the carotid tract.
- Echotomography identified atherosclerotic lesions in 26 patients.
- Hemorheologic parameters (hematocrit, fibrinogen, blood filterability, viscosity) were measured three months post-stroke.
Main Results:
- Atherosclerotic lesions were detected in over half of the study participants.
- Statistical analysis revealed a potential association between carotid lesions and increased age.
- Higher fibrinogen levels and poorer whole blood filterability were also linked to the presence of atherosclerotic lesions.
Conclusions:
- Age, fibrinogen levels, and whole blood filterability are potential indicators of extracranial carotid atherosclerosis in acute stroke patients.
- These findings suggest hemorheologic factors play a role in the development of carotid artery disease.
- Further research is warranted to confirm these associations and explore therapeutic implications.