Infection and Stroke: an Update on Recent Progress

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Infectious Diseases
• Vascular Medicine

Background:

• The relationship between infection and cerebrovascular disease is intricate and not fully understood.
• Recent scientific advancements have shed light on this complex topic over the past five years.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent developments in understanding the link between infection and stroke.
• To explore four key aspects of the infection-stroke relationship.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on studies published in the last five years.
• Analysis of research on specific infectious agents, systemic infections, chronic infections, and post-stroke morbidity.
• Examination of evidence regarding vaccination and prophylactic antibiotics.

Main Results:

• Herpesviruses and HIV are implicated as direct causes of cerebral vasculopathy.
• Systemic infections are identified as triggers for acute stroke in both children and adults, with vaccination showing potential for stroke prevention.
• Chronic infections and overall "infectious burden" are emerging as significant stroke risk factors.
• Infection is linked to increased post-stroke morbidity through various mechanisms, with evidence supporting prophylactic antibiotics.

Conclusions:

• Infection plays a multifaceted role in cerebrovascular disease, acting as a direct cause, trigger, risk factor, and contributor to post-stroke complications.
• Recent research provides a clearer understanding of these complex interactions, informing potential prevention and treatment strategies.